The University of Texas School of Public Health at Houston 2020-2021 Academic Catalog

Home , Community health, Doctor of Public Health, Health services research, Long School of Medicine, Public health law

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificate, baccalaureate, masters, doctorate and special professional degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or 404- 679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

This catalog is a general information publication only. It is not intended to nor does it contain all regulations that relate to students. Applicants, students, and faculty are referred to The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) General Catalog. The provisions of this catalog and/or the General Catalog do not constitute a contract, express or implied, between any applicant, student, or faculty member and The University of Texas School of Public Health at Houston (UTHealth School of Public Health) or The University of Texas System. The UTHealth School of Public Health reserves the right to withdraw courses at any time, and to change fees or tuition, calendar, curriculum, degree requirements, graduation procedures, and any other requirements affecting students. Changes will become effective whenever the proper authorities so determine and will apply to both prospective and current students.

To the extent provided by applicable law, no person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any program or activity sponsored or conducted by UTHealth on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other basis prohibited by law. COVID-19 UPDATE

The UTHealth School of Public Health continues to monitor the impact of COVID-19 and continues to make updates to school operations in the interest of our community’s health and safety. Current and incoming students are required to complete all degree requirements as defined in the catalog for the year they matriculated into their degree program. The modality/delivery of courses may be altered in accordance with UTHealth, Center for Disease Control and Prevention and other federal, state and local government agency guidelines as suggested for reducing the transmissibility of COVID-19. Faculty, staff and students can view updates to school operations on the UTHealth School of Public Health COVID19 Up- dates website here: https://sph.uth.edu/news/sphcovid19.

All decisions related to course delivery and student practicum experiences for the 2020-2021 academic year will be an- nounced via email to students.

Additional information can be found on the UTHealth COVID-19 Resources website here: https://www.uth.edu/news/covid-19/.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Administrative Officers 3 Faculty Directory 3 Vision, Mission & Values and Accreditations 4

Academic Affairs and Student Services 5 Admissions 9 Application Procedures and Deadlines 9 Admissions Process 12 Tuition and Fees 14 Academic Calendar, Term & Course Structure 15

Master of Public Health (MPH) 16 Customized MPH 16 Master of Science (MS) 17 Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) 18 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 19 Degrees and Available Locations 20

Dual Degree Programs 21 Graduate Certificates and Accelerated Master’s Program (4+1 Program) 22 Special Programs 26

Department of Biostatistics and Data Science 28 Minor in Biostatistics 28 MS in Biostatistics 28 PhD in Biostatistics 28 PhD in Biostatistics, Direct Admission 29

Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences 31 Epidemiology 31 Minor in Epidemiology 31 MPH in Epidemiology 31 PhD in Epidemiology 32 PhD in Epidemiology, Direct Admission 32 Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences 33 Minor in Environmental Sciences 33 MPH in Environmental Health 33 PhD in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Disease Prevention Track 34 PhD in Environmental Sciences, Total Worker Health Track 35

Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences 36 Minor in Behavioral Sciences 36 MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education 36 MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education, Dietetic Internship 36 DrPH in Health Promotion/Health Education 37 PhD in Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion 38

Department of Management, Policy and Community Health 39 Minor in Community Health Practice 39 Minor in Health Economics 39 Minor in Health Policy 39

Minor in Health Services Research 39 Minor in Healthcare Management 39 MPH in Community Health Practice 39 MPH in Health Services Organizations 40 MPH in Healthcare Management 41 DrPH in Community Health Practice 41 PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Health Economics/Health Services Research Track 42 PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Healthcare Management/Health Policy Track 42

Course Directory 44 Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences Courses 44 Biostatistics and Data Science Courses 51 Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Courses 57 Epidemiology Courses 61 Management, Policy and Community Health Courses 68 Interdepartmental Courses 76

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICERS

Eric Boerwinkle, PhD Dean M. David Low Chair in Public Health Kozmetsky Family Chair in Human Genetics

Susan Emery, PhD Senior Associate Dean of Academic and Research Affairs Allan King Professorship in Public Health

Cynthia Bihm Mary Pastore, BS Interim Associate Dean for Management Director of Accounting Services

Krishna Sankhavaram John T. (JT) Rayburn Executive Director of Information Technology Director of Administrative Services

Office of Academic Affairs and Student Services Mary Ann Smith, PhD Kimberly Baker, PhD Assistant Dean of Students Director of Public Health Practice

School of Public Health Campuses Deanna Hoelscher, PhD Kristina D. Mena, MSPH, PhD Campus Dean, Austin Campus Campus Dean, El Paso Campus

Belinda Reininger, DrPH Jack Tsai, PhD Campus Dean, Brownsville Campus Campus Dean, San Antonio Campus

Bijal Balasubramanian, PhD, MPH, MBBS Campus Dean, Dallas Campus

Academic Departments Hulin Wu, PhD Alanna Morrison, PhD Chair Chair Department of Biostatistics and Data Science Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences Robert O. Morgan, PhD Chair Christine Markham, PhD Department of Management, Policy and Interim Chair Community Health Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences

Faculty Directory School of Public Health faculty listings can be found on the SPH Faculty Directory website at https://sph.uth.edu/faculty/index.htm.

VISION, MISSION & VALUES AND ACCREDITATIONS

Vision, Mission & Values

Our vision: Health without boundaries.

Our mission: Changing the culture of health through excellence in graduate education, research and engagement.

To achieve a world in which health has no boundaries, we must first shift the way people—from the communities around us to the healthcare industry to decision-makers in government—think about, and act on, matters relating to health.

Our values: Collaborate, Lead, Transform, Diversify.

Accreditations More information on any of the following accreditations can be found on the School of Public Health Accreditation website here: https://sph.uth.edu/about/accreditation.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) is accredited by the Southern Association of Col- leges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award certificate, baccalaureate, master's, doctorate and special professional degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) Since 1969, UTHealth School of Public Health is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) every seven years, and was most recently accredited in 2020.

Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET The Industrial Hygiene master’s curriculum, an optional special program of the Master in Public Health (MPH) in En- vironmental Health, is accredited by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET. For more information about this program, see the Special Programs section.

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics The Accreditation Council for Education in Dietetic The Dietetic Internship Program, an optional special program of the MPH in Health Promotion/ Health Education, is fully accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This program is also approved by The Accreditation Coun- cil for Education in Dietetic. For more information about this program, see the Special Programs section.

Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) The Occupational and Environmental Medicine Residency Program, an optional special program of the MPH in Envi- ronmental Health, is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). For more information about this program, see the Special Programs section.

Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management (CAHME) The MPH in Healthcare Management is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). For more information about this program, see the MPH in Healthcare Management course of study.

The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree program satisfies the academic requirement for certification by the Ameri- can Board of Preventive Medicine in the areas of public health, occupational medicine, aerospace medicine, and preventive medicine; the National Board of Public Health Examiners; and the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS AND STUDENT SERVICES

The mission of the Office of Academic Affairs and Student Services is to assist students by providing timely and accurate information with high-quality service in an atmosphere that is both welcoming and professional. The office serves as the central “hub” for the services that will assist students from the time they apply through the time they graduate and beyond.

Career and Alumni Services The Office of Career and Alumni Services at UTHealth School of Public Health provides information, service, training and support to students and alumni that can help them explore their values, interests, and skills; build their professional network; and stay engaged with the UTHealth School of Public Health.

Financial Assistance UTHealth School of Public Health offers a number of endowed scholarships. Graduate scholarships are awarded on the basis of scholastic excellence and adequate preparation for graduate study in the student’s chosen field, as shown by the student’s academic record. Scholarship eligibility criteria include admission into a degree program; enrollment in coursework leading to the degree; reasonable progress in the degree program; good academic standing; GPA; and in some cases test scores; references; and personal statements. There are additional specific qualifications for scholarships in various areas of study. Students are encouraged to contact the School of Public Health Office of Academic Affairs and Student Services to obtain information about eligibility criteria and scholarships awarded in the student’s area of study. Scholarships may be available based on funding; availability may change, amount may change, and only competitive scholarships of $1,000 or more will be eligible for resident tuition. For more information about financial assistance opportunities, see the UTHealth Office of Student Financial Services website (https://www.uth.edu/sfs/index.htm) and the UTHealth School of Public Health Financial Assistance website (https://sph.uth.edu/enroll/finance/index.htm),

Selection Process Awards of traineeships and scholarships are made by the UTHealth School of Public Health Scholarship and Train- eeship Committee, which is composed of faculty members and administrative staff. In awarding scholarships, the committee considers the following as appropriate to achieve the donor’s scholarship intent: faculty recommendations, academic performance, financial need, research interests, and other professional and personal achievements

Fellowships A limited number of fellowships are available through the research centers of UTHealth School of Public Health. Application for these fellowships is made directly to the centers. Selection criteria include those listed above, and the recipients are chosen by the faculty in the centers.

Library & Graduate Communication Center The mission of the UTHealth School of Public Health Library & Graduate Communication Center is to provide primary information support services for the education, research, and community health services programs of the faculty, students, and staff. Writing Support Services offers public health communication skills training, with a focus on writing. Instruction is provided in the areas of English as a Second Language (ESL), Academic and Scientific Writing.

The UTHealth School of Public Health Library & Graduate Communication Center is a member of the Texas Health Science Libraries Consortium (THSLC), which is the collaboration of health science libraries in the Houston-Galveston area. The THSLC leads and encourages collaboration through shared digital library environments and resources to provide access to the world of information for its educational, clinical, and research communities. For more information, see the Library & Graduate Communication Center website here: https://sph.uth.edu/research/library/index.htm.

Student Organizations The Student Association at UTHealth School of Public Health is based at the Houston campus. All students are auto- matically a part of the organization. SPHSA holds weekly socials in cooperation with other student groups and acts as the official student governance organization to relay information to school administration.

School of Public Health Policies Policies are categorized into one of the following areas: academics, administrative, degree requirements, or enrollment. All of the following policies can be found on the mySPH Policies webpage at https://uthealthsph.force.com/UTHealthCommunity/s/policies.

Academic Policies Policy 100, Student Academic Grievance Process Policy 102, Doctoral Committee Structures Policy 103, Drop Date Deadline for Courses Policy 104, MPH and MS Committee Structures Policy 105, Registration Maximum Credits in One Term Policy 106, Thesis Dissertation Data and Publication Authorship Policy 107, Academic Remediation Plan and Probation Steps Policy 108, Test Security Policy Policy 109, Student Research Thesis/Dissertation Proposal Approval

Administrative Policies Policy 200, Student Evaluation Process Policy 201, Course Grading Policy 202, Maximum Students in a Course

Degree Requirements Policies Policy 300, Breadth and Minor Requirements for Doctoral Students Policy 301, Conditional Admission to Doctoral Programs Policy 302, Direct Admission from a Bachelor’s Degree to the PhD Program Policy 303, Epidemiology Course Requirement Policy 307, Preliminary Examination; Admission to Candidacy and Dissertation Defense Policy 308, Transfer of Credit Hours

Enrollment Policies Policy 400, Auditing Courses Policy 401, Continuous Enrollment for Students Enrolled in Thesis and Dissertation Research Policy 402, Enrollment Requirements, Degree Time Limits, and Leaves of Absence Policy 403, Readmission to a Degree Program Policy 404, Transfer of Students between the UTHealth SPH Campuses Policy 405, Verification of Degrees for International Applicants Policy 406, Teaching of Graduate Assistant Enrollment Status Requirement

UTHealth Handbook of Operating Procedures (HOOP) Students are charged with knowledge of and compliance with all UTHealth regulations concerning student conduct and discipline as set forth in the UTHealth Handbook of Operating Procedures (HOOP). Students are expected to sign a pledge adhering to the school’s honor code during new student orientation. HOOP Policy 186, Student Conduct and Discipline (https://www.uth.edu/hoop/policy.htm?id=1448220)

Policy 100, Student Academic Grievance Process Individual faculty members have primary responsibility for grading and evaluations. The faculty member’s judgment is final unless compelling evidence suggests differential treatment or mistake. In attempting to resolve any issue regarding academic matters, it is the student’s obligation to first make a serious effort to resolve the matter with the faculty member with whom the issue originated. If the student and faculty member cannot resolve the matter, the student may elect to use the formal Academic Grievance Resolution Process to request a review and recommendation from the Academic Grievance Committee, a subcommittee of the Academic Council.

Policy 201, Course Grading Letter grades (“A,” “B,” “C,” or “F”) are given for all MPH core courses. Elective courses may be letter-graded or graded on the basis of pass/fail (“P” or “F”) at the discretion of the instructor. Grades in pass/fail courses will not be

6 included in the GPA calculation. A GPA will be calculated from all letter-graded courses. In computing GPA per hour, the following scores are used: A = 4 points; B = 3 points; C = 2 points; F = 0 points. The GPA is calculated by multiply- ing the grade points by the number of credit hours for each course. Repeated courses will be listed on the transcript along with the original course. However, please note the following stipulations: • The GPA will be calculated on the letter-graded courses only using the grade from the repeated course. • Students have the opportunity to retake a course only one time for calculation of the GPA. • A third attempt is rarely approved, and will only be considered if the first two attempts were failures. Stu- dents may petition to the Office of Academic Affairs and Student Services to retake a course a third time. • The final attempt will be the grade calculated into the GPA.

An Incomplete (“I”) will revert to an “F” if the coursework is not successfully completed after one semester. However, at the course instructor’s discretion, a grade may be entered to replace the “F” when the work from the incomplete is completed. A “W” grade is assigned when a student withdraws from a course.

Policy 308, Transfer of Credits Up to nine (9) graduate semester credit hours earned at other accredited institutions may be transferred and applied to UTHealth School of Public Health transcripts or counted toward graduation requirements if approved by the Office of Academic Affairs and Student Services and the student’s advisor. These hours must not have been applied toward another awarded degree.

For dual degree programs with reciprocal agreements, students enrolled at UTHealth School of Public Health may take courses for credit at affiliated institutions, provided the courses are prospectively recommended and approved by the student’s advisory committee. The sum total number of transfer credit that students can apply to a dual degree program at UTHealth School of Public Health from an accredited foreign institution is 12 semester credit hours. This applies to all concurrent/dual degree programs and external transfer credits. Students should contact the program coordinator for the dual degree program for further information.

General non-degree and certificate students can transfer up to 16 semester credit hours of UTHealth School of Public Health coursework if accepted into a degree program, provided a passing grade is earned in the course, and the course is completed within five (5) years prior to matriculation into the degree program. Credit hours toward a degree program’s graduation requirements begin to accrue at the time of admission to and enrollment into the degree program and courses. Credit hours earned as part of a master’s degree program do not count toward a doctoral degree program.

Policy 402, Enrollment Requirements, Degree Time Limits, and Leaves of Absences A student is classified as “full-time” if enrolled in at least nine (9) semester credit hours during the fall or spring semesters, at least six (6) semester credit hours during the summer. Enrollment is required in the semester in which the research proposal is submitted and continuously through the semester in which all requirements for graduation are completed. Enrollment is required prior to, during, or just after the semester in which the preliminary examination (DrPH and PhD programs) is taken and in the semester in which the student is involved in a practicum/internship (MPH and DrPH programs). Enrollment is required in the semester in which students graduate. Students must maintain enrollment so that any absence from the degree program does not exceed one (1) calendar year (three (3) con- secutive semesters) unless a formal leave of absence is granted.

Students are expected to complete master’s degree programs (MPH and MS) within five (5) years and doctoral degree programs (DrPH and PhD) within seven (7) years. In case of extenuating circumstances, a student may request a one-year extension. The possibility of a second year of extension exists under extraordinary circumstances. Students who do not graduate within the approved time limit will be dismissed from the program and must be readmitted in order to complete the degree program in effect at the time of readmission.

Students who anticipate interrupting their degree program for more than two (2) semesters should consider requesting a Leave of Absence (LOA). Students who have an approved LOA maintain their student status within the School. The LOA “stops the clock” on the student’s degree program and does not add to the timeline for completing the degree. The LOA is granted for one (1) calendar year. In extraordinary circumstances, a second year may be granted. LOAs do not extend beyond two (2) years. Students who need to be away from the school for longer periods should

7 consider withdrawing from the degree program and applying for readmission when their situation improves. The student may enroll in classes at any time during the LOA if his/her situation changes and the LOA is no longer needed.

Student Communication E-mail accounts constitute the official mode of communication linking students, faculty, and/or administration. Consequently, students are responsible for maintaining the UTHealth e-mail account assigned to them and activated upon payment of tuition and fees, and are responsible for regularly checking e-mail messages.

Student Technical Requirements Students at UTHealth School of Public Health must have a personal computer available to them. All students are provided with a user account, which offers access to a Web-based electronic mail application, an online learning management system, the ability to connect personal wireless computers within campuses, and a file repository and sharing system. For compatibility purposes, all students should have a computer with the following minimum requirements and recommendations:

Operating System Windows 8.1 or higher (preferred), Mac OS X 10.7 (Lion) or higher Web Camera Resolution at least 640 x 480, but 1280 x 720 preferred, must also include a microphone Memory (RAM) 4 GB minimum, 8 GB or more is recommended Browser Internet Explorer 9+, Chrome, Firefox, Safari (Mac users) Internet Speeds Preferred: DSL and Cable connectivity from outside the campus. Dialup and ISDN services will not provide enough bandwidth for most applications to function properly. Antivirus Software You must have Antivirus software. Microsoft Security Essentials is recommended for Windows computers if no other software is installed and Sophos Antivirus for Mac users. Both products are free to students through the vendor websites. Proctoring Software The latest versions of Adobe Flash Player is required for the Web-based proctoring software, ProctorU. You can test your system’s compatibility with our proctor solution at, http://www.proctoru.com/testitout/. Other Software Access to most course software through a virtual computer lab environment is provided. This system is called Parallels. The following link will give you access to the instructions on where to download the Parallels client and how to install and configure the client so you can to gain access to the SPH vLab - https://utsph.bloomfire.com/posts/2281277-sph-virtual-computer-lab- parallels-client. The Parallels client is available for both Windows and Mac operating systems. Additionally, Microsoft Office is the primary application tool used by all faculty. Regardless of your operating system, you will be most compatible with your faculty if you have Microsoft Of- fice installed.

ADMISSIONS

The following sections describe the application procedures, application deadlines and admissions procedures. For more information, see the School of Public Health Admissions website at https://sph.uth.edu/enroll/admissions/index.htm.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND DEADLINES

Application Procedures Application procedures vary depending on the admission type a student is seeking and described below. All applicants to UTHealth School of Public Health are received and processed by the centralized application service, School of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS) (http://www.sophas.org/) or SOPHAS Express (https://sophasexpress.liaisoncas.com/applicant-ux/#/login). This application service is intended to streamline the application process for applicants as they are able to upload one set of application materials, including institutional transcripts, reference letters, and standardized test scores. All the supporting documentation detailed below is required of those applicants submitting their applications through either SOPHAS or SOPHAS Express, unless otherwise noted.

Degree-seeking Students The degree-seeking application process is used for students seeking admission into one of the UTHealth School of Public Health degree programs. All degree-seeking applications, including supporting documentation, are received and processed by SOPHAS. Detailed instructions for submission of applications using SOPHAS are described on the SOPHAS website.

Applicants to dual degree programs apply to each institution independently of the respective complementary dual degree program. More information about dual degree programs can be found in the dual degree programs section of this catalog. Applicants seeking readmission should refer to Policy 403 Readmission to a Degree Program under the Academic Policies section of this catalog.

Non-degree Seeking Students The non-degree application process is used for students seeking admission into one of the UTHealth School of Public Health non-degree programs, non-degree graduate certificate programs, or pre-approved re-admission. All non-degree applications, including supporting documentation, are received and processed by SOPHAS Express. Detailed instructions for submission of applications using SOPHAS Express are described on the SOPHAS Express website.

Required Application Materials for All Applicants The following contains the elements of the application materials required when submitting materials to either SOPHAS or SOPHAS Express. More information about required application materials can be found on the Admissions website.

1. Application Form Applicants will complete the bio-demographic data to also include whether they plan to enroll as a full-time or part- time student. Each applicant will be reviewed by the one program and one campus that student’s select from their application.

2. Personal Statement and Objectives Applicants should describe their interests in public health in the essay/personal statement & objectives section of the application form. The essay should address educational goals specific to the chosen program of study. Applicants should also describe career goals as well as any experience relating to the health field, research, community service, and leadership positions. Applicants are encouraged to describe how significant life experiences have influenced their motivation, qualifications, or academic record. This essay/personal statement & objectives is central to the admissions decision and is read by the admissions committee. **Note: Personal statement & objectives are screened for plagiarism. Evidence of plagiarism will result in an automatic denial of admission.

3. Evidence of Proficiency Evidence of proficiency in basic mathematical or other quantitative skills, documented through transcripts, publications, or a statement describing how this proficiency was achieved, or will be achieved, prior to enrollment.

4. Application Fee Payment of the SOPHAS or SOPHAS Express application fee. Students apply through either SOPHAS (degree-seeking applicants) or SOPHAS Express (certificate or non-degree-seeking applicants). The application fee through SOPHAS is based upon a sliding scale determined by the number of schools to which the applicant is intending to apply. The cost for a SOPHAS application is $140 for the first school or program to which the student applies. Any additional schools or programs to which a student chooses to apply will cost $50 per designation, even if the application is submitted later in the application cycle. The cost for a SOPHAS Express application is $50. More information about SOPHAS fees can be found here: https://help.liai- sonedu.com/SOPHAS_Applicant_Help_Center/Starting_Your_SOPHAS_Application/Getting_Started_with_Your_SOP HAS_Application/03_Application_Fees and SOPHAS Express fees found here: https://sophasexpress.liaisoncas.com/applicant-ux/#/login.

5. Official Transcripts Transcripts must include both grades and credit hours. The School prefers a grade point average of at least 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. International applicants are required to submit World Education Services (WES) evaluations of their transcripts to SOPHAS. See 9. Transcript Credential Evaluation for more information.

Degree-seeking applicants: Applicants should submit official transcripts covering all periods of postsecondary enrollment in all accredited institutions of higher education attended. Copies of transcripts sent by the applicant are not considered. Applicants should request that all institutions attended send official (original) transcripts directly to SOPHAS to one of the appropriate addresses:

For regular mail, please send to: For overnight delivery ONLY, please send to: SOPHAS SOPHAS c/o Liaison International P.O. Box 9111 311 Arsenal Street Watertown, MA 02471-9111 Watertown, MA 02472 Phone: 617-612-2090

Non-degree seeking applicants: Applicants should upload unofficial transcripts covering all periods of postsecondary enrollment in all accredited institutions of higher education attended. In the event the applicant is admitted, they will also need to provide official (original) transcripts directly to the UTHealth Office of the Registrar.

6. Letters of Recommendation Applicants are required to submit letter(s) of recommendation from individual(s) qualified to evaluate the applicant’s academic or professional performance, ability, motivation, and character. Academic letters of reference are preferred. All submitted letters should be on official letterhead.

Degree-seeking applicants: At least three letters of recommendation are required.

Non-degree seeking applicants: At least one letter of recommendation is required.

7. Entrance Examinations Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores are required for all degree-seeking applicants and are reviewed by the Admis- sions Committee. Students applying to the MPH program may also submit Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) scores in place of GRE scores. *Non-degree applicants applying through SOPHAS Express are not required to submit entrance examination records.

Minimum scores required: For GRE scores, a recommended combined score of 298 for masters programs and 308 for doctoral programs on the verbal and quantitative sections of the General Test is preferred. For the analytical writing section, a score of at least 4.0 on a scale of 6.0 is preferred. The GRE is administered at many universities across the

United States and in many foreign cities. Only scores received directly from Educational Testing Service (https://www.ets.org/) will be considered. Submit GRE scores to SOPHAS using the reporting code 4479.

For MCAT Scores, a recommended total score of 500 is preferred. Only scores received directly from the American Association of Medical Colleges (https://www.aamc.org/) testing service will be considered. Submit MCAT scores to SOPHAS using the reporting code SOPHAS. The GRE/MCAT is but one of several factors considered in the aggregate during the admissions process.

Exemptions to the GRE requirement: • Applicants holding previously-earned doctoral-level degrees from accredited U.S. universities may request an exemption; • Applicants to dual degree programs that have a doctoral component (e.g., MD/MPH, PhD/MPH, Pharm D/MPH, or JD/MPH) are exempt from the GRE requirement, provided they hold an offer of admission to the partnering participating medical, graduate, pharmacy or law school. • Applicants holding an international medical degree and holding Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates certification may request a waiver provided they are currently practicing medicine or in an active residency program in the United States at the time of applying.

8. Additional Supporting Materials Additional supporting materials: Any published papers, reports, or other materials believed to provide information on an applicant’s capability and performance should be included in the application.

Degree-seeking applicants: Several degree-seeking programs require a writing sample (see application form; send copies only since the school is not responsible for returning this supplemental material). Alternatively, copies may be appended to the SOPHAS application. Instructions on how to append these materials to the SOPHAS application are included in the SOPHAS application instructions.

Non-degree seeking applicants: Non-degree seeking students should submit any additional supporting documents to SOPHAS Express and should follow the SOPHAS Express application instructions for guidance.

Additional Required Materials for International Applicants

9. English Proficiency Exams All international applicants must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Testing System (IELTS). Information and application booklets may be obtained by contacting the Educational Testing Service directly at http://www.ets.org/toefl/ or https://www.ielts.org/en-us. This requirement applies even if you attended a graduate institution and earned only a Master’s degree.

Minimum scores required: A minimum acceptable score of 600 on the paper-based TOEFL, 250 on the computer-based TOEFL, or 100 on the internet-based TOEFL is required for admission. For IELTS, a minimum acceptable overall score of 7.5 is required for admission to our school. Test scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. Submit scores to SOPHAS using the reporting code 5688 (TOEFL); no department code is needed. Official IELTS scores meeting the minimum requirement should be mailed to:

ATTN: Admissions UTHealth School of Public Health 1200 Pressler Street, RAS E-201 Houston, TX 77030

Exemptions to the TOEFL or ILETS exam requirement: • If you are a Permanent Resident or Citizen of the United States; • If you earned a bachelor’s degree or doctoral degree from the United States; • Applicants’ country of origin from the following English-speaking countries: Australia, Bahamas, Canada, Ire- land, Jamaica, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, and United Kingdom.

Additional exemptions may be granted on a case-specific basis for those who do not meet the above criteria.

10. Transcript Credential Evaluation Transcripts for an educational credential evaluation and determination of United States equivalency from applicants who hold degrees from institutions outside of the United States. The minimum requirement is to submit a credential evaluation that demonstrates the applicant holds, at a minimum, the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree. Course-by- course (ICAP) translation is required. This can be accomplished by submitting transcripts to:

World Education Services (WES) World Education Services Contact Information: Bowling Green Station Phone: (212) 966-6311 P.O. Box 5087 Email: [email protected] New York, NY 10274-5087 Website: http://www.wes.org/ USA

Final transcript credential evaluation results must be submitted directly to SOPHAS by the evaluation agency.

Application Deadline Dates for All Applicants

Degree-seeking applicants: Completed applications, with all supporting documents, must be received by: October 1 – Spring semester priority deadline for scholarship consideration & final deadline December 1 – Fall semester priority deadline for scholarship consideration February 15 – Fall semester deadline for Dietetic Intern applicants April 1 – Fall/ Summer semester, all other applicants’ final deadline

Non-degree seeking applicants: Completed applications, with all supporting documents, must be received by: November 1 – Spring semester April 1 – Summer semester July 1 – Fall semester

Applicants will be notified by e-mail and mail of the Admissions Committee’s decision within approximately 2-8 weeks of the date the application is completed and verified via SOPHAS, provided that all supporting materials are received by the application deadline.

ADMISSIONS PROCESS

Applicants are required to elect a single degree program located at a campus of UTHealth School of Public Health. The faculty or faculty subcommittee of the appropriate program and campus review each application and all supporting documentation. Factors believed to contribute to the academic success of students and their subsequent contributions to the knowledge base and practice of public health are considered in each admissions action. The following criteria are evaluated through the application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, essay/personal statement, and CV/Resume. These criteria include: • Career goals: particularly the intent to practice public health in underserved and vulnerable communities; • Community service: particularly service to diverse communities in need; • Educational goals: should be consistent with the chosen area of study; • Motivation: description of any special obstacles or challenges that have been overcome to achieve goals thus far; • Prior academic preparation: depth, breadth, and performance; • Relevant work experience: particularly public health practice or research related to underserved and vulnerable communities; • Official scores on entrance exams and English proficiency exams (if needed); and • Theses, publications, and other scholarly works: supplemental documents provided by applicant.

Applicants may be contacted for personal interviews, and prospective students are encouraged to visit the School and discuss their proposed program with faculty and staff. The School’s contact information can be found on the UTHealth School of Public Health website. Admissions inquiries can also be emailed directly to [email protected]. applyUTH (https://my.uth.tmc.edu/psp/myuth/MYUTH/ENTP/h/?tab=UT_EP_NVT_SIGNON) is available for applicants to check on the status of their application and supporting documents. Enrolled students will use the myUTH (https://eportal.uth.tmc.edu/) portal to access their official grades, register for classes, view bills and pay fees, check on the status of financial aid applications, submit address changes, and request official UTHealth transcripts.

Policies related to transfer credits, maximum credits for enrollment in one term, and a criminal background check can be found in the Academic Policies section.

Conditional Admission to Doctoral Programs With the exception of applicants admitted directly to a PhD program, applicants to doctoral programs are expected to hold a master’s degree in the relevant discipline. Applicants with a prior master’s degree, but with deficits (i.e., no MPH or lack of master’s level discipline courses for a PhD) may be admitted with the conditions of completing required leveling courses. Once a student has completed the required leveling courses listed in the admissions letter, with a grade of at least a “B,” the conditions will be removed from the student’s record. Conditions must be met prior to the preliminary examination. Students who fail to complete the conditions will be discontinued from the doctoral program. Credit hours toward a doctoral degree program’s graduation requirements begin to accrue at the time of enrollment in the degree program as follows: • No credit hours for the leveling courses will be applied toward a doctoral degree but will be listed on the student’s official transcript. • DrPH students must have previous evidence of, or UTHealth School of Public Health course credit hours must include, all five core MPH courses.

Direct Admission to a PhD Program The School offers direct admission to the PhD in Biostatistics and PhD in Epidemiology programs. Additional admission requirements can be found in the PhD in Biostatistics, Direct Admission and PhD in Epidemiology, Direct Admis- sion sections. Students are required to meet all other admission requirements for a PhD program.

TUITION AND FEES

Tuition and fees are subject to change and become effective on the date enacted. The Texas Legislature does not set the specific amount for any particular student fee. Student fees are authorized by state statute; the specific fee amounts and the determination to increase fees are made by the university administration and The University of Texas System Board of Regents.

Fee Type Charge Alternative Instruction Delivery Fee – SPH Web Course Delivered within Texas $75/ semester credit hour Computer Resource Fee $62/ semester Graduation Fee* $100 Information Technology Access Fee $38/ semester Installment Use Fee $20 Late Payment Fee $50 Liability Insurance – Fall Semester $5.25 Spring Semester $5.25 Summer Semester $4.00 Library and Writing Services Fee $60/ semester Portfolio Fee $50/ semester Service Exam Fee $50/ semester per online course Student Orientation Fee (assessed upon matriculation) $50 Student Records Fee $5/ semester Student Services Fee** $566.25 Supplemental Fee – Accelerated MPH Program – San Antonio $4,000 (full-time rate)

**A graduation fee of $100 payable at registration for the final academic term is required of all students.

***The Student Services Fee, required of all students, provides for student health services, student counseling, student government, a shuttle service, and recreational facilities. The annual fee of $566.25 is charged to students on a semester credit hour basis by semester. Breakdown of the fee is found on the Registrar’s website under Tuition and Fee Schedule.

Health insurance is required of all UTHealth students. If students have a health insurance policy, they may provide proof of comparable insurance to Auxiliary Enterprises no later than the 12th class to have this charge waived. Infor- mation regarding student health insurance can be found at the Auxiliary Enterprise website.

The current Tuition and Fee Schedules for UTHealth can be found on the Office of Registrar website at https://www.uth.edu/registrar/current-students/registration/tuition--fee-schedule.htm.

ACADEMIC CALENDAR, TERM & COURSE STRUCTURE

Calendar for 2020-2021 Academic Year Fall 2020 Spring 2021 Summer 2021 12 Week 6 Week 1 6 Week 2

Session Session Session Semester Begins August 31 January 11 May 17 May 17 June 29 Census Date September 16 January 27 May 20 May 20 July 2 Last Day of Class December 11 April 30 August 12 June 25 August 6 Final Exams December 14-18 May 3-7 August 9-10 June 28 August 9-10 Academic calendars are subject to change. For the most current calendar, see the Office of the Registrar website.

Term Structure Course credits correspond with contact hours per week per semester as shown in the chart below.

Total Contact Hours Per Week Credit Contact Fall Semester Spring Semester Summer Semester Summer Semester Hours Hours 15 weeks 15 weeks 12-week session 6-week session 1 15 1 hour per week 1 hour per week 1.25 hours per week 2.5 hours per week 2 30 2 hours per week 2 hours per week 2.5 hours per week 5 hours per week 3 45 3 hours per week 3 hours per week 3.75 hours per week 7.5 hours per week 4 60 4 hours per week 4 hours per week 5 hours per week 10 hours per week

Course Structure A course prefix and catalog number represents the course modality, level and academic department as described in the chart below. All courses are graduate level courses. Students should seek advice from their faculty advisor and refer to their degree planner when selecting coursework to ensure courses will be applied toward their degree. Avail- ability of courses is contingent upon sufficient registration.

Course Prefix Modality and Level PH In-person and/or ITV; available to both master and doctoral-level students PHM In-person and/or ITV; available to master-level only students PHD In-person and/or ITV; available to doctoral-level only students PHW Online; available to both master and doctoral-level students PHWM Online; available to master-level only students PHWD Online; available to doctoral-level only students Catalog Number Academic Department 1000 – 1499 Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences 1600 – 1999 Biostatistics and Data Science 2100 – 2499 Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences 2500 – 2999 Epidemiology 3000 – 3999 Management, Policy, and Community Health 5000 – 9999 Interdepartmental Grading Type Grading Component L Letter-graded. Courses without an ‘L’ designation have a pass/fail grading component.

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH (MPH) The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, a minimum 45 semester credit hours, is the fundamental professional degree, required by many supervisory and managerial positions in public health and recommended for others.

Degree Requirements • Satisfactory completion of a prescribed course of study of at least one (1) academic year and a minimum of 45 semester credit hours. Only three (3) credit hours of practicum and three (3) credit hours of an integrative learning experience count toward the minimum of 45 semester credit hours. Therefore, at least 39 credit hours of didactic courses other than practicum or an integrative learning experience must be successfully completed; • Satisfactory completion of PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course); • Satisfactory completion of a planned, supervised, and evaluated practicum; and • Satisfactory completion of an integrative learning experience that demonstrates a substantial knowledge of public health.

Prescribed Course of Study Major requirements are listed within the departmental sections of this catalog. Degree requirements may be altered in successive catalogs. Students are bound by the requirements of the catalog in force at the time of their admission or readmission.

Core Requirements for MPH Students The following courses satisfy the five MPH core public health requirement: PHM 1690 Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health & PHM 2612 Epidemiology I & PHM 2110 Public Health Ecology & the Human Environment & PHM 1110 Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health & PHM 3715 Management and Policy Concepts in Public Health & PHM 5015L Introduction to Qualitative Research in Public Health.

Practicum The practicum, or applied practice experience, is an application of learning to a “real world” setting and is a CEPH requirement for completion of the MPH degree. All practicums consist of an organized internship at an extramural agency or organization engaged in work related to public health. Alternatively, the practicum may be done intramurally if the project interacts with practice agencies.

Integrative Learning Experience (ILE) The ILE is a CEPH requirement for completion of the MPH degree. It requires the synthesis and integration of knowledge and skills acquired in the degree program and their application to some aspect of professional practice. An ILE can be completed through one of the following avenues: completion of the department’s Capstone course; completion of an original research thesis; or completion of an independent project. In all ILE options, students inves- tigate public health issues and generate a high-quality written product. If students chose to complete an original research thesis, they will be required to follow all standard research thesis procedures.

Customized MPH The Master of Public Health Customized plan offers student the flexibility to complete interdisciplinary coursework relevant to their academic and professional interests. Students eligible for the customized MPH program include: students admitted to any dual degree program and students located at any SPH campus. Students will work with their advisor to select a minimum of five (5) competencies to be met in an advanced public health area. These competencies are in addition to the MPH core competencies. For a sample of the course of study, see the Customized MPH degree planner.

MASTER OF SCIENCE (MS) The Master of Science (MS) degree, a minimum of 36 semester credit hours, signifies academic accomplishment in a public health discipline and is available to those who plan careers in academia and research.

Degree Requirements • Satisfactory completion of a prescribed course of study of at least one (1) academic year and a minimum of at least 36 semester credit hours. A maximum of six (6) credit hours of thesis count toward the minimum of 36 credit hours. If the student chooses to elect a practicum, no more than three (3) credit hours of practicum and three (3) credit hours of thesis count toward the minimum of 36 credit hours. Therefore, at least 30 credit hours of didactic courses other than practicum and/or thesis must be successfully completed; • Satisfactory completion of PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course); • Satisfactory completion of one epidemiology course, if one is not already covered in the major area; • Satisfactory completion of a research thesis; and • Satisfactory delivery of an oral presentation of their thesis defense. All completed theses will be made available to the general public.

Practicum The practicum, or applied practice experience, is an application of learning to a “real world” setting. All practicums consist of an organized internship at an extramural agency or organization engaged in work related to public health. Alternatively, the practicum may be done intramurally if the project interacts with practice agencies. Although not a requirement, MS students are encouraged to include a practicum in their degree plan.

Academic Thesis Students are required to complete a research thesis deemed by the faculty to be of excellent quality and demonstrate an appropriate depth of knowledge in the field of study. If approved by the student’s advisory committee, a student may elect to include an article of publishable quality consistent with the standards of a peer- reviewed journal. The article is a part of the final submission to the Office of Research and contains all supporting elements of an acceptable research thesis. More information about a student’s advisory committee can be found in the Academic Policies section.

DOCTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH (DRPH) The Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree, a minimum of 54 semester credit hours, signifies distinguished scholarly accomplishment and is available to those who plan careers in advanced professional practice, academia, or community-based research.

Degree Requirements • Satisfactory completion of a prescribed course of study of at least one (1) academic year and a minimum of at least 54 semester credit hours. Only three (3) credit hours of practicum and six (6) credit hours of dissertation count toward the minimum of 54 credit hours. Therefore, at least 45 credit hours of didactic courses other than practicum or dissertation must be successfully completed. • Satisfactory completion of PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course); • Satisfactory completion of a minor area of study; • Satisfactory completion of one epidemiology course, if one is not already covered in the major, minor, or breadth areas; • Satisfactory completion of a planned, supervised, and evaluated practicum; • Satisfactory performance on a preliminary examination as described by the degree program; • Satisfactory defense of the dissertation proposal and completion of an original research dissertation.

Minor and Breadth Students in the DrPH program are required to complete a minor and a breadth area of study. Minor requirements are listed within the departmental sections of this catalog. Students should consult with their advisor when choosing a minor to align with their academic goals. DrPH programs have a pre-designed breadth already built into the degree requirements and students are not required to complete an additional breadth. For more information about the mi- nor and breadth requirement for DrPH students, see the Academic Polices section.

Preliminary Exam The preliminary examination will be taken after the courses prescribed by the degree program have been successfully completed. If a student is unable to successfully complete (i.e., demonstrate competence in) the preliminary examination after two attempts, the student will be dismissed from the DrPH program. That student may be provided an opportunity to complete the MPH degree program (if the student does not already possess a MPH degree), but the opportunity is not automatic, and acceptance into the MPH program is decided collectively by departmental faculty. For more information, see the Academic Policies section.

Practicum The practicum, or applied practice experience, is an application of learning to a “real world” setting and is a CEPH requirement for completion of the DrPH degree. All practicums consist of an organized internship at an extramural agency or organization engaged in work related to public health. Alternatively, the practicum may be done intramurally if the project interacts with practice agencies. The DrPH practicum ensures that students have significant advanced-level practice experiences collaborating with practitioners, allowing opportunities to develop leadership competencies and contribute to the field.

Dissertation Students are required to complete an original research dissertation that makes a substantial contribution to knowledge in public health. This requirement will be fulfilled when an oral defense of the dissertation research proposal and the final dissertation have been successfully completed, the document has been approved and signed by all members of the dissertation committee, and a copy has been filed in the Dean’s Office.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (PHD) The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, a minimum of 48 semester credit hours, in a public health discipline represents outstanding scholarly achievement and signifies a capacity for independent study.*

Degree Requirements • For students with a master’s degree, satisfactory completion of a prescribed course of study of at least one (1) academic year and a minimum of at least 48 semester credit hours. A maximum of six (6) semester credit hours of dissertation count toward the minimum 48 credit hours. If the student chooses to elect a practicum, no more than three (3) credit hours of practicum and three (3) credit hours of dissertation count toward the minimum of 48 credit hours. Therefore, at least 42 credit hours of didactic courses other than practicum or dissertation must be successfully completed. *For students with a bachelor’s degree admitted as a direct-admit, satisfactory completion of a prescribed course of study of at least one (1) academic year and a minimum of at least 72 semester credit hours is required. • Satisfactory completion of PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course); • Satisfactory completion of two minor areas of study or one minor area of study and one breadth area; • Satisfactory completion of one epidemiology course, if one is not already covered in the major, minor, or breadth areas; • Satisfactory performance on a preliminary examination as described by the degree program; • Satisfactory defense of the dissertation proposal and completion of an original research dissertation.

Minor and Breadth Students in the PhD program are required to complete either two minors or one minor and one breadth area of study. Minor requirements are listed within the departmental sections of this catalog. Students should consult with their advisor when choosing a minor and/or breadth to align with their academic goals. For more information about the minor and breadth requirement for PhD students, see the Academic Polices section.

Preliminary Exam The preliminary examination will be taken after the courses prescribed by the degree program have been successfully completed. If a student is unable to successfully complete (i.e., demonstrate competence in) the preliminary examination after two attempts, the student will be dismissed from the PhD program. For students with a bachelor’s degree, the opportunity to complete a MS degree program is not automatic, and acceptance into the MS program is decided by departmental faculty. For more information, see the Academic Policies section.

Practicum The practicum, or applied practice experience, is an application of learning to a “real world” setting. All practicums consist of an organized internship at an extramural agency or organization engaged in work related to public health. Alternatively, a practicum may be done intramurally if the project interacts with practice agencies. Although not a requirement, PhD students are encouraged to include a practicum in their degree plan.

Dissertation Students are required to complete an original research dissertation that makes a substantial contribution to knowledge in public health. This requirement will be fulfilled when an oral defense of the dissertation research proposal and the final dissertation have been successfully completed, the document has been approved and signed by all members of the dissertation committee, and a copy has been filed in the Dean’s Office.

DEGREES AND AVAILABLE LOCATIONS

Degree programs that are currently accepting applications for admission are indicated with a check () for each campus respectively. Each program has its own course of study located within the departmental sections in this catalog. To skip to a specific course of study, select one of the programs below.

Online Houston Austin Brownsville Dallas El Paso Antonio San 100%

Master of Public Health - MPH Community Health Practice  Customized       Environmental Health    Epidemiology       Health Promotion/Health Education       Healthcare Management*  Health Services Organizations  Master of Science - MS Biostatistics  Doctor of Public Health - DrPH Community Health Practice  Health Promotion/Health Education      Doctor of Philosophy - PhD Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion    Biostatistics  Environmental Science - Total Worker Health    Environmental Science - Environmental Disease Prevention    Epidemiology      Health Economics and Health Services Research  Healthcare Management and Health Policy  *The MPH in Healthcare Management is pending review and approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) to offer this program 100% online starting in fall 2020.

DUAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

Dual degree programs at UTHealth School of Public Health are designed so that the curricula of both degrees are integrated to the extent possible. Through these programs, students are able to complete two degrees in a shorter time period than completing each separately because some specified courses count toward both degrees. Students interested in a dual degree program must apply and be admitted separately to each institution according to the usual application procedures of each institution and meet the requirements of each institution for its respective degree. For more information, see the Admissions Process section.

The sum total number of transfer credit that students can apply to a dual degree program at UTHealth School of Public Health from an accredited foreign institution is 12 semester credit hours. This applies to all concurrent/dual degree programs and external transfer credits. Students should contact the program coordinator for the dual degree program for further information.

More information about the following dual degree programs can be found on the Dual Degree Programs website.

Houston Austin Brownsville Dallas El Paso Antonio San DDS/MPH Program UTHealth School of Dentistry  JD/MPH Program University of Houston Law Center  MBA/MPH Program The University of Texas at San Antonio College of Business  MD/MPH Programs Baylor College of Medicine  Dell Medical School  McGovern Medical School  Texas Tech University, Paul Foster School of Medicine  UTHealth San Antonio, Long School of Medicine  UT Southwestern Medical School  University of Texas Rio Grande Valley  MGPS/MPH Program The University of Texas at Austin LJB School of Public Affairs  MPAff/MPH Program The University of Texas at Austin LBJ School of Public Affairs  MS/MPH Program UTHealth School of Biomedical Informatics       MSSW/MPH Program The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work  MSW/MPH Program The University of Houston School of Social Sciences  Pharm.D./MPH Program The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy  PhD/MPH Program UTHealth School of Biomedical Sciences 

GRADUATE CERTIFICATES AND ACCELERATED MASTER’S PROGRAM (4+1 PROGRAM)

Graduate Certificates A complete list of certificates is listed in the chart below. More information and course requirements can be found on the mySPH Graduate Certificates website at https://uthealthsph.force.com/UTHealthCommunity/s/certificate- planners.

Graduate certificates for non-degree seeking students provides the opportunity to take courses for credit at UTHealth School of Public Health without pursuing a formal degree. Students are required to complete the application procedure as a non-degree student. For more information, see the Admissions section. Students interested in applying to a degree program must follow the usual application procedure. Certificate courses may be applied toward the required credit hours of a degree program in the form of transfer credits. However, students interested in taking more than the maximum transfer credit hours are strongly advised to apply for admission to a degree program. For more information about transfer credits, see the Academic Policies section.

Degree-seeking students who are currently pursuing a graduate degree are not required to complete an admissions application before pursuing a graduate certificate. All graduate certificates are available to all students at all campuses unless otherwise noted. Students should consult their advisors for course availability at their campus.

Degree- Non-Degree Seeking Seeking Certificate Certificates Certificates Advanced Data Science   Advanced Planning and Evaluation for Health Promotion Programs*   Advanced Quantitative Methods in Behavioral Sciences*   Clinical Nutrition and Public Health (Houston only)   Culinary Nutrition and Public Health (Houston only)   Data Science   Genomics & Bioinformatics   Global Health   Health Disparities   Health Promotion Program Planning and Evaluation   Healthcare Administration   Introduction to Quantitative Methods in Behavioral Sciences*   Leadership Theory and Practice   Maternal & Child Health   Nutrition and Public Health  Physical Activity & Health  Public Health  Public Health Informatics  *These graduate certificates will be available to non-degree seeking students beginning in spring 2021.

Advanced Data Science Certificate (15 semester credit hours) This certificate is designed for both students and working professionals who intend to elevate their knowledge and skill-set regarding data science processes and their application. This certificate is an extension of the established Data Science Certificate and consists of learning modules in data science crafted to meet the needs of students, employers, and community partners. Topics include data mining, data science computing, and programming in Python and R.

For more information, see the Advanced Data Science Certificate planner.

Advanced Planning and Evaluation for Health Promotion Programs (12 semester credit hours) This certificate builds on the Health Promotion Program Planning and Evaluation certificate and is intended for professionals who are working or who plan to work in public health departments, government or non-profit 22 organizations to obtain advanced skills in health promotion program planning and evaluation to improve health and eliminate health disparities. These courses provide advanced skills to develop and evaluate theory- and evidence- based multilevel health promotion programs, select appropriate research designs, and apply statistical analyses to translate research to practice for evidence-based decision-making.

For more information, see the Advanced Planning and Evaluation for Health Promotion Programs certificate planner.

Advanced Quantitative Methods for Behavioral Sciences (15 semester credit hours) This certificate builds on the Introduction to Quantitative Methods for Behavioral Sciences certificate and provides advanced training in research design and quantitative methods relevant to practitioners and researchers working in the fields of health promotion, social and behavioral sciences and preventative medicine. The course offerings in this certificate are designed to provide education in advanced design and analysis methods. This certificate will be suitable for students who have prior experience or training through multivariate linear and logistic regression modeling.

For more information, see the Advanced Quantitative Methods for Behavioral Sciences certificate planner.

Clinical Nutrition and Public Health Certificate (13 semester credit hours) This certificate is designed to prepare those in the public health and health care workforce to understand the role of nutrition in disease prevention and health promotion, nutrition assessment, nutritional epidemiologic methods, nutritional physiology, nutritional health policy, and culinary medicine.

For more information, see the Clinical Nutrition and Public Health certificate planner.

Culinary Nutrition and Public Health Certificate (13 semester credit hours) This certificate is designed to prepare those in the public health and health care workforce to understand the role of nutrition in disease prevention and health promotion, nutrition assessment, nutritional physiology, nutritional health policy, and culinary medicine.

For more information, see the Culinary Nutrition and Public Health certificate planner.

Data Science Certificate (9 semester credit hours for degree-seeking students; 13 semester credit hours for non-degree-seeking students) This certificate is intended for professionals working in health care or industries related to public health research and biostatistics, and consists of coursework in data science, data analytics and predictions, analytic methods, and data management.

For more information, see the Data Science certificate planner.

Genomics and Bioinformatics Certificate (12 semester credit hours) This certificate is intended for professionals in academic, clinical, and research settings who are now or soon to be faced with genomic and related data. The goal is to enable a generation of investigators and academicians capable of integrating genomic and related high-dimensional data seamlessly into population and personalized health.

For more information, see the Genomics and Bioinformatics certificate planner.

Global Health Certificate (12 semester credit hours) This certificate is intended for students interested in exploring how globalization is affecting the determinants of health, the health status of the population, and the capacity of nation-states to deal with the determinants of health and disease. The goal is to prepare students for positions that involve public health decision-making and research in a changing world.

For more information, see the Global Health certificate planner.

Health Disparities Certificate (12 semester credit hours) This certificate provides an orientation for individuals who are working in public health or health care and seeking to focus their work to the recognition, description and elimination of health disparities that have been defined as differences in “the overall rate of disease incidence, prevalence, morbidity, mortality or survival rates.”

For more information, see the Health Disparities certificate planner.

Health Promotion Program Planning and Evaluation Certificate (15 semester credit hours) This certificate is designed to prepare those in the public health workforce to identify behavioral and environmental determinants of health that are modifiable, and to plan and evaluate effective health promotion programs and policies to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease in diverse populations and settings.

For more information, see the Health Promotion Program Planning and Evaluation certificate planner.

Healthcare Administration Certificate (15 semester credit hours) This certificate is intended for professionals working in healthcare management and students enrolled in post-baccalaureate degree programs in complementary graduate level disciplines such as business, health care, public policy, public administration, or health sciences. This certificate is designed to meet the needs of students, employers, and community partners.

For more information, see the Healthcare Administration certificate planner.

Introduction to Quantitative Methods for Behavioral Sciences (13 semester credit hours) This certificate provides introductory training in research design and quantitative methods relevant to practitioners and researchers working in the fields of health promotion, social and behavioral sciences and preventative medicine. The course offerings in this certificate are designed to provide an introduction to basic design and analysis concepts. This will be suitable for certificate students entering with little or no prior quantitative methods experience.

For more information, see the Introduction to Quantitative Methods for Behavioral Sciences certificate planner.

Leadership Theory and Practice (12 semester credit hours) This certificate provides students with the theories behind leadership excellence as well as discussion on current leadership issues. It helps train present and future public health leaders in personal leadership qualities and skills needed for effective leadership including systems thinking; team work, cultural humility, strategic planning, and other leadership skills.

For more information, see the Leadership Theory and Practice certificate planner.

Maternal & Child Health Certificate (12 semester credit hours for degree-seeking students; 15 semester credit hours for non-degree-seeking students) This certificate is designed to equip students with skills to professionally promote and enhance the health of women, children, and their communities on a local, state, federal, and international level, while working as advocates in health care organizations, academic institutions, and other public and private organizations. An in-depth diverse curriculum provides skills development in reproductive, perinatal, child, and adolescent health.

For more information, see the Maternal & Child Health certificate planner.

Nutrition and Public Health Certificate (9 semester credit hours) This certificate provides opportunities and training for students to focus on dietary assessment methodology, nutritional epidemiology, food policy and systems, behavioral nutrition interventions, and medical nutrition therapy. The goal is to prepare students to understand the role of nutrition in disease prevention and health promotion, dietary assessment, nutritional epidemiologic methods, nutritional physiology, and food and nutrition policy.

For more information, see the Nutrition and Public Health certificate planner.

Physical Activity & Public Health Certificate (12 semester credit hours) This certificate provides opportunities and training for students to focus on physical activity assessment, epidemiologic methods, intervention planning, physiologic mechanisms and health outcomes, and policy development. This certificate also focuses on the possible causes and consequences of physical inactivity on health in individuals and populations and provides hands-on opportunities for skills development in the areas of measurement, intervention, and environmental and policy change.

For more information, see the Physical Activity & Public Health certificate planner.

Public Health Certificate (16 semester credit hours) This certificate is intended for public health practitioners and individuals who are interested in increasing their basic public health knowledge or are considering a graduate degree in the field. These courses cover the core content of the disciplines that are basic to public health.

For more information, see the Public Health certificate planner.

Public Health Informatics (16 semester credit hours) This certificate is a joint program between UTHealth School of Biomedical Informatics and UTHealth School of Public Health and was created to address the growing emphasis of public health informatics at the national level and the increased market demand.

For more information, see the Public Health Informatics certificate planner.

Accelerated Master’s Programs (4+1 Program) Undergraduate students matriculating at a school or college external to UTHealth School of Public Health will have the opportunity to earn both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master of Public Health through UTHealth School of Public Health over the course of five (5) years through an integrated program that overlaps graduate courses into the student’s undergraduate work in the senior year of the undergraduate program. Students apply as a non-degree seeking student for enrollment in the Public Health Certificate during their undergraduate program. Once students graduate with their Bachelor’s degree, they will apply as a degree-seeking MPH student where their certificate courses will be applied to their MPH degree. These educational agreements are listed as Accelerated Master Programs. UTHealth School of Public Health holds the following program agreements with the following educational entities. More information can be found on the Graduate Certificates website.

Houston Austin Brownsville Dallas El Paso Antonio San

Accelerated Master’s Programs (4+1 Program) Public Health Certificate/Austin College  Public Health Certificate/Rice University  Public Health Certificate/Schreiner University  Public Health Certificate/St. Mary’s University  Public Health Certificate/The University of Texas at Austin  Public Health Certificate/The University of Texas at San Antonio  Public Health Certificate/University of Houston  Public Health Certificate/University of Texas Rio Grande Valley  Public Health Certificate/UTHealth School of Dentistry, Dental Hygiene  Program

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Current, degree-seeking students are eligible to participate in the following special programs to enhance their educational experience.

Archer Center Fellowship Program This program provides students with an opportunity to learn about the federal government and public policy. Fellows spend 12 weeks interning in a Washington, D.C. organization of their choosing based on their own professional and academic goals and interests. Students in this program will earn 9 credit hours of coursework by enrolling in PH 5098 ST: Federal Policy Making & PH 5098 ST: Archer Center Research & PH 9997 Practicum. Archer Center Program Fee: $3,900.

Dietetic Internship This program provides students with an opportunity to complete an MPH with an emphasis in Health Promo- tion/Health Education while simultaneously completing the requirements of an accredited Dietetic Internship program. Graduates of the Dietetic Internship are prepared to practice as entry-level dietitians, are eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dieticians and are qualified to apply for dietetic licensure through the Texas Department of State Health Services. The Dietetic Internship Program is administered through the Michael & Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living. For a course of study, see the MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education, Dietetic Internship section. This is a two-year program with a program fee of $5,000. For more information see the School of Public Health Die- tetic Internship Program website at https://sph.uth.edu/research/centers/dell/dietetic-internship-program/index.htm.

Industrial Hygiene Industrial hygiene is the science devoted to anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling environmental factors posing risk to workers and the community, which arise from the workplace. The industrial hygiene curriculum for the MPH is accredited by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET. A high level of faculty/student interaction is emphasized and students typically gain practical experience through summer internships, which offer a wealth of opportunities for training in industrial settings, healthcare, petroleum and petrochemicals, agriculture, and public and private business and government sectors. Industrial hygiene is a discipline within occupational health and safety (OHS), which is a professionally exciting and rewarding field of public health that includes all other aspects of public health such as epidemiology, health promotion, management, global health and wellness, and other disciplines. Being an OHS practitioner helps to save lives of working people and promotes a grounded quality of life for their families and communities. The interdisciplinary curriculum is based on a public health model for practice. Graduates are prepared to participate in a multi-disciplinary approach to planning, implementing, managing, and evaluating program and services for worker health and safety.

Course of Study Students who elect to complete the optional Industrial Hygiene curriculum will complete a minimum of 51 credit hours and are required to complete the listed 14 credit hours in addition to their MPH in Environmental Health required coursework. • Students in the Industrial Hygiene program will complete the 14 credit hours of coursework: PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics, PHM 2155 Environmental Sampling & Analysis (Lab fee: $10.00), PH 2250 Occupational Health Controls, and PH 2260 Occupational Health Field Trips, in lieu of electives. • Students must select PH 2245 Fundamentals for Industrial Hygiene (4 credits) from the three options listed under the major courses selections in the MPH course of student.

Maternal and Child Health Trainee Fellowship Program The Maternal and Child Health Trainee Fellowship Program is open to students enrolled in the Maternal and Child Health Certificate who are interested in a year-long intensive training experience in maternal and child health. The MCH Trainee Fellowship program will include a Conductive Leadership Curriculum as well as experiential placements working on maternal and child health-related projects and programs with local and state agencies. For more information, see the Maternal and Child Health Fellowship website.

Residency Program in Occupational and Environmental Medicine This two-year track trains practicing physicians to be qualified for careers in occupational and environmental medicine. This program includes one year of rigorous academic study and one year of experiential rotations to fulfill the requirements of the MPH. Students who successfully complete the coursework and rotations are eligible to apply for board certification in occupational medicine by the American Board of Preventive Medicine (ABPM). For more information, see the Occupational and Environmental Medicine website.

Course of Study Students who elect to complete the optional Occupational Medicine Residency curriculum will complete a minimum of 50 credit hours and are required to complete the listed 13 credit hours in addition to their MPH in Environmental Health required coursework. • Occupational Medicine Residents will complete the following 13 credit hours of coursework: PH 2255 Clinical Occupational Medicine, PH 2260 Occupational Health Field Trips, PH 2265 Occupational Medicine Practice (taken twice), PH 2270L Total Worker Health and Worker Well-being, in lieu of electives. • Students must select PH 2245 Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene (4 credits) from the three options listed under the major courses selections in the MPH course of study.

DEPARTMENT OF BIOSTATISTICS AND DATA SCIENCE

Biostatistics is a discipline encompassing the study and development of statistical, mathematical, and computer methods applied to the biological and health sciences.

Minor in Biostatistics A minor in biostatistics consists of at least nine (9) SCH of the following required courses: • Masters students: PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health & PH 1700L Intermediate Biosta- tistics & at least one Biostatistics elective above PH 1700L • Doctoral students: PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health & PH 1700L Intermediate Biosta- tistics & at least two Biostatistics electives above PH 1700L (Note: PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health is a prerequisite to PH 1700L but may be waived depending on the student’s background.) PH 1820L Applied Linear Regression is strongly recommended as an elective for all students.

MS in Biostatistics The MS Biostatistics degree program is a minimum 36 semester credit hours, and provides training in research design, basic statistical theory, data analysis, computer applications, and statistical consultation. Graduates of the program are prepared to assume statistical posts in government, private health agencies, or in health research programs. The program emphasizes fundamental statistical theory and methods and provides the basis for doctoral level biostatistical studies.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the MS program should hold an undergraduate degree that emphasizes the development of strong quantitative skills through multivariate calculus and at least one semester of linear algebra. Examples are degree programs in mathematical, physical, biological, or social sciences. Advanced mathematical training and knowledge of computer programming are highly desirable. For more information, see the Admissions sections.

Course of Study The following courses are required for the MS in Biostatistics: • Leveling and Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) & PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health *Leveling courses do not count toward the total number of credits for the degree program. • Major courses: PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics & PH 1820L Applied Linear Regression & PH 1821L Applied Multivariate Analysis for Biostatistics & PH 1830L Categorical Data Analysis & PH 1831L Survival Analysis & PH 1910L Probability and Distribution Theory & PH 1911L Statistical Inference • Electives: Students are required to complete 12 credit hours of elective coursework. Students must complete a 3 credit hour epidemiology course of their choice (2500-2999). Students are encouraged to complete elective coursework in biostatistics (1600-1999; not already on the degree planner). Students should consult with their advisor when selecting elective courses. Students may also elect to complete a minor outside of their department. Students who opt to complete a minor should consult with their advisor and the minor’s department for requirements. • Thesis: PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/Thesis Research

For a sample course of study, see the MS in Biostatistics degree planner.

PhD in Biostatistics The PhD in Biostatistics degree program is a minimum 48 semester credit hours, or a minimum of 72 semester credit hours for direct admission, and emphasizes advanced statistical theory and application, statistical consulting and independent research and prepares students to be independent investigators in the development and application of biostatistical analyses to problems of human health and disease. Graduates of the program go on to assume senior statistical posts in governmental or private health research agencies, or pursue careers in teaching and research.

Special Entrance Requirements

Applicants to the PhD program should have mathematical training beyond the introductory calculus level, including advanced calculus and linear algebra. Preference will be given to applicants with coursework in more advanced mathematics as well as statistics. They should hold degrees in areas that emphasize the development of strong quantitative skills, such as, degrees in mathematical, biomedical, physical, or social sciences. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for the PhD in Biostatistics: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for credit course) • Leveling Courses: PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics; PH 1820L Applied Linear Regression*; PH 1821L Applied Multivariate Analysis for Biostatistics*; PH 1830L Categorical Data Analysis*; PH 1910L Probability and Distribution Theory* Academic credits from leveling courses do not count towards the total required number of credits for the degree program. • Major Courses: PH 1831L Survival Analysis*; PH 1911L Statistical Inference*; PHD 1915L Linear Models I*; PH 1916L Generalized Linear Models; PHD 1930L Statistical Computing; PHD 1950L Stochastic Processes for Biostatisticians I*; PH 1988 Biostatistics Seminar • One breadth and one minor or two minors: student are required to elect a minor outside of their department. Students should consult with their advisor and the minor’s department for requirements. Students may choose to complete a breadth or second minor. Students who do not elect an epidemiology minor must complete a three (3) credit hour epidemiology course as part of the breadth (2500-2999). Students who do complete an epidemiology minor must complete a three (3) credit hours course outside of both epidemiology and biostatistics for the breadth. Students who choose to complete a breadth should consult with their advisor to determine which courses are most appropriate for their academic and professional goals. Students who choose to complete a second minor should consult with their advisor and the minor’s department for requirements. • Biostatistics Electives: Students are required to complete a minimum of 14 credit hours of electives from any biostatistics course above the 1700L level that is not already required on the degree planner. Students should consult with their advisor when selecting elective courses coursework appropriate for the student’s research and career goals. • PHD 1995 Research Practice Experience for Biostatistics Students • PHD 9999 Dissertation Research *Students must successfully complete each course indicated with an asterisk (*) prior to sitting for the preliminary exam. For a sample course of study, see the PhD in Biostatistics degree planner.

PhD in Biostatistics, Direct Admission The Department of Biostatistics and Data Science may admit students holding a BA or BS degree (or foreign equivalent) directly into the PhD program. A student requesting direct admission to the PhD program is expected to have a bachelor’s degree that emphasizes the development of strong quantitative skills, such as degrees in mathematical, biomedical, or physical sciences. The successful applicant will have mastered multivariable calculus and linear algebra. Applicants with degrees that are not in one of these areas who have the requisite statistical training may be admitted to the PhD program. All admissions require approval of faculty.

Direct Admit Course of Study The following courses are required for the direct admit PhD in Biostatistics: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for credit course) • Masters Equivalent Courses: PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics; PH 1820L Applied Linear Regression*; PH 1821L Applied Multivariate Analysis for Biostatistics*; PH 1830L Categorical Data Analysis*; PH 1910L Probability and Distribution Theory* • Major Courses: PH 1831L Survival Analysis*; PH 1911L Statistical Inference*; PHD 1915L Linear Models I*; PH 1916L Generalized Linear Models; PHD 1930L Statistical Computing; PHD 1950L Stochastic Processes for Biostatisticians I*; PH 1988 Biostatistics Seminar • One breadth and one minor or two minors: student are required to elect a minor outside of their department. Students should consult with their advisor and the minor’s department for requirements.

Students may choose to complete a breadth or second minor. Students who do not elect an epidemiology minor must complete a three (3) credit hour epidemiology course as part of the breadth (2500-2999). Students who do complete an epidemiology minor must complete a three (3) credit hours course outside of both epidemiology and biostatistics for the breadth. Students who choose to complete a breadth should consult with their advisor to determine which courses are most appropriate for their academic and professional goals. Students who choose to complete a second minor should consult with their advisor and the minor’s department for requirements. • Biostatistics Electives: Students are required to complete a minimum of 14 credit hours of electives from any biostatistics course above the 1700L level that is not already required on the degree planner. Students should consult with their advisor when selecting elective courses coursework appropriate for the student’s research and career goals. • PHD 1995 Research Practice Experience for Biostatistics Students • PHD 9999 Dissertation Research *Students must successfully complete each course indicated with an asterisk (*) prior to sitting for the preliminary exam. For a sample course of study, see the direct admission PhD in Biostatistics degree planner.

DEPARTMENT OF EPIDEMIOLOGY, HUMAN GENETICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences (EHGES) includes a broad group of sciences. Epidemiol- ogy is one of the basic sciences of public health and plays a vital role in disease prevention through the study of determinants and patterns of disease in vulnerable populations. Human genetics research involves locating and charac- terizing genes underlying chronic diseases, such as coronary heart disease and diabetes. Environmental science research involves studying the air people breathe, the water people drink, and the environment where people live and work. The academic programs for EHGES are divided into two areas: Epidemiology and Environmental and Occupa- tional Health Sciences (EOHS).

EPIDEMIOLOGY

Epidemiology is the study of patterns of disease and injury in human populations and the application of this study to the control of health problems.

Minor in Epidemiology The department offers a minor course of study (nine (9) semester credit hours) for MS and doctoral students majoring in other public health disciplines. Courses required for the minor include: • Masters students: PHM 2612L Epidemiology I & two Epidemiology electives • Doctoral students: PH 2615L Epidemiology II, PH 2710L Epidemiology III & one Epidemiology elective

MPH in Epidemiology The MPH in Epidemiology is a minimum of 45 semester credit hours designed to provide a breadth of achievement in the five core disciplines of public health, as well as additional knowledge and skills in epidemiology. The goal of this program is to prepare students to put epidemiologic concepts and methods into public health practice, conduct research studies in public health, and interpret scientific evidence relevant to public health.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the MPH program should hold a bachelor’s degree in the biomedical or social sciences from a regionally accredited university or school. Experience in public health practice is also considered favorably. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for an MPH in Epidemiology: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • MPH Core: PHM 1110L & PHM 1690L & PHWM 2110L & PHM 2612L & PHM 3715L & PHM 5015L • Major Courses: PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics & PH 2615L Epidemiology II & PH 2710L Epidemiology III • Emphasis Area: Six (6) credit hours of selected epidemiology coursework (2500-2999) in Public Health Practice or Public Health Research. Students should consult with their advisor when selecting which track to complete. o Public Health Practice: Students who elect to complete an emphasis area in public health practice should work with their advisor when selecting coursework appropriate for their academic and professional goals. o Public Health Research: Students who elect to complete an emphasis area in public health research should work with their advisor when selecting coursework appropriate for their academic and professional goals. Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in PHM 2720L Epidemiology Proposal Development and PH 2858 Quantitative Analysis for Public Health Research and Practice. Students who elect to complete public health research coursework are expected to complete a traditional academic thesis as their integrative learning experience. • Electives: Six (6) credit hours of elective coursework • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHWM 2996 Capstone for EPID Students or PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/Thesis Research (for students completing an independent ILE or traditional academic thesis)

For a sample course of study, see the MPH in Epidemiology degree planner.

PhD in Epidemiology The PhD in Epidemiology is a minimum of 48 semester credit hours, or a minimum of 72 semester credit hours for direct admission, and represents a mastery of epidemiologic concepts, theories and methodology; and a significant capacity for independent study. The doctoral program is research-intensive, and is designed for students who plan to go on to academic (university-based) or research careers in epidemiology and disease control.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the PhD program should hold an MS or MPH in Epidemiology from a regionally accredited university or college or have other accomplishments, which indicate readiness for doctoral study in epidemiology. GRE scores are required. See the ‘Application Process & Deadline Dates’ and ‘Admissions Process’ sections for more information. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for a PhD in Epidemiology: • Leveling and Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for credit course); PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health & PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics; PHM 2612L Epidemiology I; PH 2615L Epidemiology II & PH 2710L Epidemiology III *Academic credits from leveling courses do not count towards the total required number of credits for the degree program. • Major Courses: PHD 2711L Epidemiology IV*; PHD 2712L Experimental Methods in Epidemiology*; PHD 2990 Epidemiology Seminar; PHD 2720L Epidemiology Proposal Development; and: o Three (3) credit hours of a selected required course*: PH 1830L Categorical Data Analysis; and/or PH 1831L Survival Analysis • One breadth and one minor or two minors • Elective courses: 11-14 credit hours. Students are required to complete a minimum of nine (9) credit hours of elective coursework within the epidemiology department (2500-2999). One epidemiology elective* (2500- 2999) is required prior to sitting for the epidemiology preliminary exam. • PHD 9999 Dissertation Research *Students must successfully complete each course indicated with an asterisk (*) prior to sitting for the preliminary exam. For a sample course of study, see the PhD in Epidemiology degree planner.

PhD in Epidemiology, Direct Admission The Department of Epidemiology may admit students holding a BA or BS degree (or foreign equivalent) directly into the PhD program. A student requesting direct admission to the PhD program is expected to have either a bachelor’s degree that demonstrates the development of strong scientific and analytical skills, a professional doctoral degree in a medical field, or a doctoral degree in a field not directly related to medicine or public health that is coupled with evidence of adequate preparation in biological sciences and mathematics. In addition, evidence of academic achievement that includes completion of advanced courses in biological sciences, at least two semesters of college-level calculus (or the equivalent) and at least one course in statistics.

Direct Admit Course of Study The following courses are required for a direct admit PhD in Epidemiology: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for credit course) • Masters Equivalent Coursework: PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health & PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics; PHM 2612L Epidemiology I; PH 2615L Epidemiology II & PH 2710L Epidemiology III • PhD Required Courses: PHD 2711L Epidemiology IV*; PHD 2712L Experimental Methods in Epidemiology*; PHD 2990 Epidemiology Seminar; PHD 2720L Epidemiology Proposal Development; and: o Three (3) credit hours of a selected required course*: PH 1830L Categorical Data Analysis; and/or PH 1831L Survival Analysis • One breadth and one minor or two minors

• Elective courses: 19-22 credit hours. Students are required to complete a minimum of nine (9) credit hours of elective coursework within the epidemiology department (2500-2999). One epidemiology elective* (2500- 2999) is required prior to sitting for the epidemiology preliminary exam. • PHD 9999 Dissertation Research *Students must successfully complete each course indicated with an asterisk (*) prior to sitting for the preliminary exam. For a sample course of study, see the direct admission PhD in Epidemiology degree planner.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SCIENCES

Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences (EOHS) is the field of study that deals with the (1) anticipation, identification, and characterization of potentially harmful physical, chemical, and biological agents in community and workplace environments; (2) identification and study of the relevant pathways of exposure; (3) assessment of the effects of such agents on the environment and human health; and (4) development of interventions to prevent or ameliorate problems associated with environmental or occupational contaminants.

Minor in Environmental Sciences EOHS also offers a minor course of study (minimum nine (9) semester credit hours) for MS and doctoral students majoring in other public health disciplines. Courses required for the minor include: • Masters students: PHWM 2110L Public Health Ecology & the Human Environment & two EOHS electives (2100-24099) (PH 2175L is recommended) • Doctoral students: PHD 2135L Risk Analysis: Principles and Practice & [PHWD 2106L Introduction to Doctoral Research Methods in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences OR PHWD 2108L Applied Epidemiological Analysis OR PHWD 2760L Occupational Epidemiology] & an EOHS elective (2100-2499). PHM courses do not count toward a doctoral minor.

MPH in Environmental Health The MPH in Environmental Health is a minimum of 45 semester credit hours and provides a foundation in environmental and occupational health sciences, in addition to the skills needed to function as a practitioner in a variety of public health settings. Students are prepared to assume positions in public health practice in government or the private sector.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the MPH program should have successfully completed coursework in mathematics, chemistry, and biological sciences. Applicants typically hold a bachelor’s or higher degree in the physical, chemical, or biological sciences; engineering; nursing; or medicine from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. Applicants with majors from other disciplines who satisfy the undergraduate course-work requirements will be considered. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for an MPH in Environmental Health: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • MPH Core: PHM 1110L & PHM 1690L & PHWM 2110L & PHM 2612L & PHM 3715L & PHM 5015L • Major Courses: PH 2175L Toxicology I: Principles of Toxicology; PH 2205L Health and Safety Program Management and Leadership; PHM 2135L Risk Analysis: Principles and Practice; & one of the courses from the selection below: o PHW 2150 Air Environment o PHWM 2230L Water Environment o PH 2245 Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene • Electives: students should consult with their advisor when selecting elective courses. Students are required to complete at least three (3) credit hours of the nine (9) credit hours of EOHS coursework (2000-2499). • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHM 2496 Capstone for EOHS Students or PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/Thesis Research (for students completing an independent ILE or traditional academic thesis)

The MPH in Environmental Health is associated with two separate special programs: Industrial Hygiene and the Occupational and Environmental Medicine Residency Program. For more information about these optional curriculums, see the Special Programs section. For a sample course of study, see the MPH in Environmental Health degree planner.

PhD in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Disease Prevention Track The PhD in Environmental Sciences is a minimum of 48 semester credit hours and offers in-depth didactic and research training for students who want to focus their careers in academic, governmental, or other research institutions, and/or in high-level policy/regulatory positions. The Environmental Disease Prevention Track will provide students experience in identifying and measuring disease agents in various environments, and opportunities to develop ways to mitigate associated public health risks.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the PhD program should have a prior MS or equivalent degree in Environmental Health Sciences or a related field from an accredited institution of higher education. In addition, applicants are expected to have successfully completed coursework in calculus, organic chemistry, physics, and biological sciences. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for a PhD in Environmental Science, Environmental Disease Prevention Track: • Leveling and Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course); PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics; PHWM 2110L Public Health Ecology and the Human Environment; PH 2175L Toxicology I: Principles of Toxicology; PHM 2612L Epidemiology I *Academic credits from leveling courses do not count towards the total required number of credits for the degree program. • Major Courses: PHD 2105L EOHS Doctoral Seminar (taken twice) & PHWD 2106L Introduction to Doctoral Research Methods in EOHS & PH 2245 Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene • Track-Specific Courses: PHD 2135L Risk Analysis - Principles and Practice & PH 2177 Toxicology II: Toxic Agents and the Environment & PH 2126 Fundamentals and Applications of GIS & PHD 2155 Environmental Sampling and Analysis & one of the courses from the selections below: o PHW 2150 Air Environment o PHD 2230 Water Environment • Minor: Epidemiology Minor: PH 2615L Epidemiology II; PH 2710L Epidemiology III & one of the courses from the selections below: o PHWD 2108L Applied Epidemiological Analysis o PHWD 2760L Occupational Epidemiology o PHD 2762L Environmental Epidemiology • Breadth: Person-Centered Well-Being Breadth: PHD 2845L Nutritional Epidemiology & one course from each of the grouping selections below: o Selection 1: 3 credit hours of a selected required course: . PH 2735L Physical Activity and Health: Epidemiology and Mechanisms . PH 5400 Physical Activity Assessment and Surveillance . PH 5401L Physical Activity and Public Health Practice o Selection 2: 3 credit hours of a selected required course: . PHW 2780L Applied Genetics Methods in Public Health . PH 2815L Genetics and Human Disease . PHW 2970L Foundations of Public Health Genetics o Selection 3: 3 credit hours of a selected required course: . PH 1350L Ethnicity, Race, Class & Gender: A Multicultural Public Health Perspective . PHW 2775 Epidemiologic Methods in Racial and Ethnic Disparities . PHD 3922 Economic and Social Determinants of Health • PHD 9999 Dissertation Research

For a sample course of study, see the PhD in Environmental Science, Environmental Disease Prevention Track degree planner.

PhD in Environmental Sciences, Total Worker Health Track The PhD in Environmental Sciences is a minimum of 48 semester credit hours and offers in-depth didactic and research training for students who want to focus their careers in academic, governmental, or other research institutions, and/or in high-level policy/regulatory positions. The Total Worker Health Track is an addition to the NIOSH-funded Education and Research Center (ERC) Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health (SWCOEH). Graduates will be able to conduct research that characterizes worker well-being, as well as implement policies and practices that improve worker health.

Course of Study The following courses are required for a PhD in Environmental Science, Total Worker Health Track: • Leveling and Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course); PHM 1110L Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences in Public Health; PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics; PHWM 2110L Public Health Ecology and the Human Environment; PH 2175L Toxicology I: Principles of Toxicology; PHM 2612L Epidemiology I *Academic credits from leveling courses do not count towards the total required number of credits for the degree program. • Major Courses: PHD 2105L EOHS Doctoral Seminar (taken twice) & PHWD 2106L Introduction to Doctoral Research Methods in EOHS & PH 2245 Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene • Track-Specific Courses: PH 2205L Health and Safety Program Management and Leadership & PH 2241L Fundamentals of Occupational Safety & PH 2270L Total Worker Health and Worker Well-being & PHW 2498 ST: Occupational Health Psychology & PH 2498 ST: Total Worker Health Field Experience & PHWD 2760L Occupational Epidemiology • Minor: Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences Minor: PHD 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs (Intervention Mapping) & PHD 1120L Program Evaluation & PHD 1122L Health Promotion Theory for Individuals and Groups: Part I • Breadth: Worker-Centered Well-Being Breadth: Four courses (12 credit hours) from the selections below: o PH 1236 Issues in Aging o PH 1410L Addiction and Society o PH 1350L Ethnicity, Race, Class & Gender: A Multicultural Public Health Perspective o PH 2246L Principles of Occupational Ergonomics o PHWD 2835 Injury Epidemiology o PHD 2845L Nutritional Epidemiology o PHD 2762L Environmental Epidemiology o PHD 3810 Health Policy in the U.S. o PHD 3910 Health Economics o PH 3737L Cost-effectiveness for Public Health Interventions o PH 5220 Gender and Leadership o Students may take one of the following courses as part of the breadth requirement: . PH 5400 Physical Activity Assessment and Surveillance . PHD 5402L Social & Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity . PH 2735L Physical Activity & Health: Epidemiology & Mechanics • PHD 9999 Dissertation Research For a sample course of study, see the PhD in Environmental Health, Total Worker Health Track degree planner.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PROMOTION AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES

Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences (HPBS) seeks to improve public health through the application of social and behavioral sciences to solving the problems of human disease and disability.

Minor in Behavioral Sciences The department offers a minor course of study (nine (9) semester credit hours) for MS and doctoral students. Students are required to select at least one course from the Theory category and one course from the Methods category: • Theory Courses: PHD 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs (Intervention Mapping) OR PHD 1122 Health Promotion Theories for Individuals and Groups: Part I OR PHD 1123L Community Health Promotion Theory and Practice OR PHD 1227L Health Promotion Theories for Indi- viduals and Groups: Part II • Methods Courses: PHD 1118L Qualitative Methods OR PH 1324L Applied Discrete Data Analysis using STATA OR PHD 1130L Applied Measurement Theory OR PHD 1132 Latent Variable Models and Factor Analysis OR PHD 1420L Quantitative Research Design for Behavioral Sciences AND PHD 1421L Quantitative Analysis for Behavioral Sciences, Meta-Analysis, and Evidence-Based Public Health OR PHD 1431 Tools and Methods for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis OR PH 1498L ST: Applied Longitudinal Data Analysis

MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education The MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education is a minimum of 45 semester credit hours and is the basic professional degree and integrates the core public health disciplines with behavioral and social sciences. The curriculum emphasizes intervention methods for health promotion development and evaluation in a variety of settings.

Course of Study The following courses are required for an MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education: • Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • MPH Core: PHM 1110L & PHM 1690L & PHWM 2110L & PHM 2612L & PHM 3715L & PHM 5015L • Major Courses: PHM 1111L Health Promotion Theory and Methods & PH 1112L Community Assessment Methods in Public Health & PHM 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs (Intervention Mapping) & PHM 1120L Program Evaluation & PH 1433 Research Seminar in Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences • Elective Courses • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHM 1496 Capstone for HPBS Students or PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/Thesis Research (for students completing an independent ILE or traditional academic thesis)

For a sample course of study, see the MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education degree planner.

MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education, Dietetic Internship The MPH in Health Promotion & Health Education, Dietetic Internship is a minimum 45 semester credit hours and is the fundamental degree in public health nutrition. Students delve into this area of concentration through didactic work, supervised practice, and their final specialty practice rotation with staff relief in an area of public health nutrition selected by each intern.

Course of Study The following courses are required for an MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education, Dietetic Internship: • Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • MPH Core: PHM 1110L & PHM 1690L & PHWM 2110L & PHM 2612L & PHM 3715L & PHM 5015L • Major Courses: PHM 1111L Health Promotion Theory and Methods & PHM 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs (Intervention Mapping & PHM 1231L Medical Nutrition Therapy & PHM 1232L Public Health Nutrition Practice & PH 2755L Nutrition Research Methods & PH 5098 ST: Garden for Health (Course Fee: $75.00) & PH 5098 ST: Culinary Medicine (Course Fee: $75.00)

• Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 (section 800, first year-spring & section 870, first year-summer & section 850, second year-spring) Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHM 1496L (section 850) Capstone for HPBS Students: Seed-to-Plate Prevention Pt. 1 & PHM 1496L (section 800) Capstone for HPBS Students: Seed-to-Plate Prevention Pt. 2; or PHM 9998 Thesis Research (for students completing a traditional academic thesis)

For a sample course of study, see the MPH in Health Promotion/Health Education, Dietetic Internship degree planner.

DrPH in Health Promotion/Health Education The DrPH in Health Promotion/Health Education is a minimum of 54 semester credit hours. It is designed to train students for leadership roles as public health professionals in governmental and non-governmental agencies, health departments, or for work in the research or academic setting, and emphasizes the development, implementation and evaluation of theory-based public health interventions in public settings. An important component of this degree program is the ability to communicate findings to the public and policymakers, and students are expected to contribute to and apply scientific discoveries in public health settings through research.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the DrPH program should hold an earned master’s degree or equivalent in public health with a substantial behavioral sciences component. Preferred applicants are those who have leadership experience through paid employment or volunteer work. In exceptional cases, applicants without the required academic background in public health may be accepted on the condition of additional coursework in public health. Applicants are asked to submit a writing sample that demonstrates competence in written communication for academic work. Theses, publications, or other academic work are preferred. Applicant should be the sole or first author on the submitted work. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for a DrPH in Health Promotion & Health Education: • Leveling and Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) & PHM 1110L Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health & PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health; PHM 2612L Epidemiology I *Academic credits from leveling courses do not count towards the total required number of credits for the degree program. • Before Preliminary Exam: PHD 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs (Intervention Mapping) & PHD 1120L Program Evaluation & PHD 1122 Health Promotion Theories for Individuals and Groups: Part I & PHD 1123 Community Health Promotion Theory and Practice & PHD 1420L Research Design for Behavioral Sciences & PHD 1421L Quantitative Analysis for Behavioral Sciences & PH 1433 Research Seminar in Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences • After Preliminary Exam: PHD 1118L Qualitative Methods & PHD 1121L Advanced Quantitative Analysis for Behavioral Sciences & PHD 1450 Dissemination and Implementation Theory and Methods & PHD 1498L ST: Principles of Adult and Community Education for Public Health Educators & PHD 3950 Advanced Leadership Studies in Public Health & PHD 3801L Community-based Grant Writing Workshop & PHD 3998L ST: Community Engagement & Community-based Participatory Research & PH 3998 ST: Public Health Advocacy • Epidemiology Requirement: all students are required to complete an Epidemiology course during their course of study. Please read carefully the following scenarios: o If a student took PHM 2612L Epidemiology I at the UTHealth School of Public Health as a master’s (MPH or MS) student, the required epidemiology course is NOT Needed, and the student may apply these credits towards electives or dissertation hours. Note that only six (6) credit hours of dissertation research can be counted toward the total required credits of the degree program. o If a student HAS taken Epidemiology I, but it was taken at another institution, the student MUST take another epidemiology course at UTHealth School of Public Health to meet the School’s epidemiology requirement. The student may elect to complete the epidemiology requirement as part of an epidemiology minor. o If a student has NOT taken Epidemiology I at a prior institution, the student must take PHM 2612L Epidemiology I as a leveling course. The required epidemiology course requirement will then be

waived, and the student may apply these credits towards electives or dissertation hours. Note that only six (6) dissertation hours can be counted toward the degree planner. • Minor: students are required to complete a minor outside of their department. A minor in Epidemiology is strongly encouraged. • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHD 9999 Dissertation Research

For a sample course of study, see the DrPH in Health Promotion/Health Education degree planner.

PhD in Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion The PhD in Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion is a minimum 48 semester credit hours and focuses on the aspects of public health and the development and evaluation of health promotion interventions, and primarily prepares scholars to integrate and develop state-of-the-art social and behavioral science theory, design, and analytic approaches to examine current problems in public health. The emphasis in this degree program is preparation for independent research and teaching, and an important component of this degree program is the ability to contribute to scientific literature.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the PhD program should hold an earned master’s degree in a social or behavioral sciences or an earned master’s degree in public health with research experiences, thesis experience, and/or coursework related to social and behavioral sciences or an earned master’s degree in another field and at least 12 hours of upper-division undergraduate or graduate coursework in social or behavioral sciences. In exceptional cases, applicants without this experience may be accepted on the condition of completing additional graduate work in the behavioral or social sciences. Applicants are asked to submit a writing sample that demonstrates competence in written communication for academic work. Theses, publications, or other academic work are preferred. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for a PhD in Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • Before Preliminary Exam: PHD 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs (Intervention Mapping) & PHD 1122 Health Promotion Theories for Individuals and Groups: Part I & PHD 1227L Health Promotion Theories for Individuals and Groups: Part II & PHD 1420L Research Design for Behavioral Sciences & PHD 1421L Quantitative Analysis for Behavioral Sciences & PH 1433 Research Seminar in Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences & PHM 2612L Epidemiology I • After Preliminary Exam: PHD 1118L Qualitative Methods & PHD 1435 HPBS Doctoral/Post-Doctoral Research Seminar & PHD 1440 Proposal Writing for Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion • Minor: students are required to complete a minor outside of their department. • Public Health Methods Breadth: PHD 1130L Applied Measurement Theory and six (6) credit hours of additional methods coursework • Dissertation: PHD 9999 Dissertation Research For a sample course of study, see the PhD in Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion degree planner.

DEPARTMENT OF MANAGEMENT, POLICY AND COMMUNITY HEALTH

The Department of Management, Policy and Community Health (MPACH) provides instruction in the fields of health economics, health services research, health policy, health law, health management and administration, health planning, community health practice, public health leadership, population health, organization management, health disparities, economic and social determinants of health, and health and economic development.

Minor in Community Health Practice The department offers a minor course of study (nine (9) semester credit hours) for students majoring in other public health disciplines. Student select three courses from the approved list: • Masters students: PHM 3630 Health Program Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation; PH 1112L Community Assessment Methods in Public Health; PHM 3922 Economic and Social Determinants of Health; PHM 3620L Principles and Practice of Public Health • Doctoral students: PHD 3998L Working with Diverse Communities & PHD 3998 Community Engagement and Community-Based Participatory Research & PHD 3998 Practice-Based Methods and Design.

Minor in Health Economics The department offers a minor course of study (nine (9) semester credit hours) for students majoring in other public health disciplines. Student select three courses from the approved list: PHD 3910 Health Economics; PH 3915 Methods for Economic Evaluation of Health Programs; PH 3922 Economic and Social Determinants of Health; PHD 3930 Econometrics in Public Health; PHD 3931 Advanced Econometrics; PHD 3935 Advanced Health Economics; PHD 3998 Decision Analysis in Public Health and Medicine.

Minor in Health Policy The department offers a minor course of study (nine (9) semester credit hours) for students majoring in other public health disciplines. Student select three courses from the approved list: PHD 3810 Health Policy in the United States; PHD 3812 Comparative Healthcare Systems: Policy Challenges and Economic Perspectives; PH 3815 Health Policy Analysis; PH 3738L Legal Issues in Healthcare; PHD 3830 Ethics and Policy; PH 3736L U.S. Healthcare Payment Systems and Policy

Minor in Health Services Research The department offers a minor course of study (nine (9) semester credit hours) for students majoring in other public health disciplines. Student select three courses from the approved list: PH 3920 Health Services Delivery and Performance; PHD 3926L Health Survey Research Design; PH 3940 Healthcare Outcomes and Quality Research; PHD 3945 Advanced Health Services Research Methods; PHD 3998 Decision Analysis in Public Health and Medicine.

Minor in Healthcare Management The department offers a minor course of study (nine (9) semester credit hours) for students majoring in other public health disciplines. Students complete a Healthcare Management related PH 9997 Practicum course & select three courses from the approved list: • Masters students: PHM 3744L Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management in Health Services Organizations; PHM 3746L Evaluation and Improvement of Healthcare Quality; PHM 3720L Healthcare Finance; PH 3747L Healthcare Operations Management; PH 3735L Healthcare Strategic Management • Doctoral students: PHD 3846L Quality Management and Improvement in Healthcare; PHD 3721L Healthcare Finance; PHD 3946L Strategy, Governance, and Leadership; PHD 3743L Organizational and Management Theory

MPH in Community Health Practice The MPH in Community Health Practice is a minimum 45 semester credit hours and focuses on the application of public health sciences at the community level, and emphasizes systematic analysis and appropriate use of quantitative and qualitative health data. Faculty and students are concerned with the assessment of population health, the planning, implementation and evaluation of health programs in community settings, and appraisal of community-level effects of health policies and programs.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the MPH program should hold an undergraduate and/or graduate degrees in one of a variety of areas, including the social and behavioral sciences, business, the biological and medical sciences, law, and/or quantitative methods. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for an MPH in Community Health Practice: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • MPH Core: PHM 1110L & PHM 1690L & PHWM 2110L & PHM 2612L & PHM 3715L & PHM 5015L • Major Courses: PH 1112L Community Assessment Methods in Public Health & PHM 3620L Principles and Practice of Public Health & PHM 3630 Health Program Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation & PHM 3800L Working with Diverse Communities & PHM 3922 Economics and Social Determinants of Health • Elective Courses • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHM 3996L Capstone for MPCH Students or PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/Thesis Research (for students completing an independent ILE or traditional academic thesis)

For a sample course of study, see the MPH in Community Health Practice degree planner.

MPH in Health Services Organizations The MPH in Health Services Organization is a minimum 45 semester credit hours and emphasizes the planning, management, and evaluation of health systems, services, technologies, and policy. The curriculum includes health economics, decision analysis, health services research, public health and legislative processes, survey research, outcomes research, quantitative methods, evaluation research, health disparities and vulnerable populations, health administration, economic and social determinants of health, utilization of health services, and ethical and legal aspects of public health.

Course of Study The following courses are required for an MPH in Health Services Organizations: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • MPH Core: PHM 1110L & PHM 1690L & PHWM 2110L & PHM 2612L & PHM 3715L & PHM 5015L • Major Courses: PHM 3910 Health Economics & PH 3915 Methods for Economics Evaluation of Health Programs & PH 3920 Health Services Delivery and Performance & one course from each of the following: o Selection 1: Three (3) credit hours of a selected required course: PHM 3746L Evaluation and Improvement of Healthcare Quality OR PH 3845L Quality, Cost and Value Evaluation in Healthcare OR PH 3940 Healthcare Outcomes and Quality Research o Selection 2: Three (3) credit hours of a selected required course: PH 3815 Health Policy Analysis OR PHD 3930 Econometrics o Selection 3: Three (3) credit hours of a selected required course: PHM 3810 Health Policy in the United States OR PH 3818 Texas Health Policy: Emerging Issues and New Approaches o Selection 4: Three (3) to four (4) credit hours of a selected required course: [PHM 3718L Accounting for Healthcare Management AND PHM 3720L Healthcare Finance (both of these should be taken if selected)] OR PH 3815 Health Policy Analysis OR PHD 3930 Econometrics OR PHD 3931 Advanced Econometrics OR PH 3736L U.S. Healthcare Payment Systems & Policy OR PH 3738L Legal Issues in Healthcare • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHM 3996L Capstone for MPCH Students or PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/Thesis Research (for students completing an independent ILE or traditional academic thesis)

For a sample course of study, see the MPH in Health Services Organizations degree planner.

MPH in Healthcare Management The MPH in Healthcare Management is a minimum 45 semester credit hours and is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in management in an interdisciplinary public health environment and a basis for understanding key managerial functions within the broad spectrum of public health systems. Students gain an appreciation of all aspects of management, including organizational theory, finance, operations management, law and strategy, which will help to improve organizational and community decision-making. A distinctive characteristic of this healthcare management degree program is recognition of the importance of linking private-sector healthcare institutional management with public-sector healthcare management and related community initiatives.

Course of Study The following courses are required for an MPH in Healthcare Management: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • MPH Core: PHM 1110L & PHM 1690L & PHWM 2110L & PHM 2612L & PHM 3715L & PHM 5015L • Major Courses: PHM 3718L Accounting for Healthcare Management & PHM 3720L Healthcare Finance & PH 3735L Healthcare Strategic Management & PH 3736L U.S. Healthcare Payment Systems and Policy & PH 3738L Legal Issues in Healthcare & PHM 3744L Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management in Health Services Organizations & PHM 3746L Evaluation and Improvement of Healthcare Quality & PH 3747L Healthcare Operations Management • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHM 3996L Capstone for MPCH Students or PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/Thesis Research (for students completing an independent ILE or traditional academic thesis)

For a sample course of study, see the MPH in Healthcare Management degree planner.

DrPH in Community Health Practice The DrPH in Community Health Practice is a minimum of 54 semester credit hours and offers interdisciplinary training for students who wish to practice at an advanced level in public health. Students are trained to engage in community- driven, grassroots and inter-sectoral applied research with a focus on addressing social inequity and systems-level change through the adoption of a transdisciplinary framework.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the DrPH program should have a prior MPH degree or its equivalent. Preferred applicants are those with public health work experience and those who have completed coursework in quantitative methods or who can provide evidence of quantitative abilities. All DrPH students are expected to have completed PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics or its equivalent. In exceptional cases, applicants without the required academic background in public health may be accepted on the condition of additional coursework in public health. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for a DrPH in Community Health Practice: • Leveling and Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) & PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health & PHM 1110L Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health & PHM 2612L Epidemiology I & PHM 3715L Management and Policy Concepts in Public Health *Academic credits from leveling courses do not count towards the total required number of credits for the degree program. • Before Preliminary Exam: PHD 1120L Program Evaluation & PH 2615L Epidemiology II & PHD 3620L Principles and Practice of Public Health & PHD 3801L Community-based Granting Writing Workshop & PHD 3998L ST: Community Engagement & Community-Based Participatory Research & PHD 3998L ST: Practice- based Design and Methods & PHD 3998L ST: Working with Diverse Communities • Major Courses: PHD 3950 Advanced Leadership Studies in Public Health & PHD 3830 Ethics and Policy & PHD 1118L Qualitative Methods & PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatics & PHD 1498L ST: Principles of Adult and Community Education for Public Health & PH 3998 ST: Public Health Advocacy & one other course from the selected list:

o PHD 3918L Geographic Information Systems Science o PHD 3926L Health Survey Research Design o PH 3738 Legal Issues in Healthcare • Minor: students are required to complete a minor outside of their department • Applied Practice Experience: PH 9997 Practicum • Integrative Learning Experience: PHD 9999 Dissertation Research

For a sample course of study, see the DrPH in Community Health Practice degree planner.

PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Health Economics/Health Services Research Track The PhD program in Management and Policy Studies, Health Economics/Health Services Research is a minimum 48 semester credit hours and emphasizes the study of cost, access, outcomes, and quality within health care systems. Students focus on understanding decision-making processes among consumers, providers, institutions, and policy makers, and pursue advanced study that leads to original research.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the PhD program must have an appropriate post-bachelor’s degree in the social sciences, economics, policy, law, management, clinical sciences or public health. Also, applicants must have an advanced knowledge of quantitative methods; preferred applicants have strong math and/or statistics backgrounds. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for a PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Health Economics/Health Services Research Track: • Other Required Course: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) • Before Preliminary Exam: PHD 3910 Health Economics & PH 3915 Methods for Economic Evaluation of Health Programs & PH 3920 Health Services Delivery and Performance & PHD 3926L Health Survey Research Design & PHD 3930 Econometrics in Public Health & PH 3940 Healthcare Outcomes and Quality Research • Required Course: PHM 2612L Epidemiology I • Select a Track: o Health Economics Track: PHD 3935 Advanced Health Economics o Health Services Research Track: PHD 3945 Advanced Health Services Research Methods o Additional Required Courses for Either Track: PH 3812 Comparative Healthcare Systems & Policy OR PHD 3922 Economic and Social Determinants of Health PHD 3931 Advanced Econometrics OR PHD 3935 Advanced Health Economics OR PH 3941 Claims Data in Health Services Research OR PHD 3945 Advanced Health Services Research Methods PHD 3957L Topics in Health Economics • One breadth and one minor or two minors: o Students who elect to complete two minors must complete at least one minor outside of the department of MPCH. o Students who elect to complete one minor and one breadth: . Students who elect a primary minor within the MPCH department must complete at least two courses of the breadth outside of the department . Students who elect a primary minor outside of the MPCH department may complete breadth coursework in any department. • Dissertation: PHD 9999 Dissertation Research

For a sample course of study, see the PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Health Economics/Health Services Research Track degree planner.

PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Healthcare Management/Health Policy Track The PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Healthcare Management/Health Policy Track is a minimum 48 semester credit hours and emphasizes the development and evaluation of health policy, leadership development within healthcare organizations, understanding the complexities of healthcare delivery while addressing costs and quality,

42 and develops researchers who can ask relevant questions, identify answers and drive policy and organizational change.

Special Entrance Requirements Applicants to the PhD program must have an appropriate post-bachelor’s degree in the social sciences, policy, law, management, clinical sciences or public health. Also, applicants must have an advanced knowledge of quantitative methods; preferred applicants with strong math and/or statistics backgrounds. For more information, see the Admissions section.

Course of Study The following courses are required for PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Healthcare Management/Health Policy Track: • Leveling and Other Required Courses: PH 101 Foundations in Public Health (online, not-for-credit course) & PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics *Academic credits from leveling courses do not count towards the total required credits for the degree program. • Before Preliminary Exam: PHD 3721L Healthcare Finance & PHD 3731L Healthcare Management and Policy Research & PHD 3743L Organizational and Management Theory & PHD 3810 Health Policy in the United States & PH 3815 Health Policy Analysis & PHD 3846L Quality Management and Improvement in Healthcare • Required Course: PHM 2612L Epidemiology I • Select an Emphasis Area: o Healthcare Management Emphasis (six credit hours of selected required coursework): PH 3736L U.S. Healthcare Payment Systems and Policy OR PH 3738 Legal Issues in Healthcare OR PHD 3812 Comparative Healthcare Systems and Policy OR PHD 3910 Health Economics OR PHD 3922 Economic & Social Determinants of Health OR PHD 3940 Healthcare Outcomes and Quality Research OR PHD 3946L Strategy, Governance, and Leadership o Health Policy Emphasis (six credit hours of selected required coursework): PHD 3812 Comparative Healthcare Systems and Policy OR PH 3815 Health Policy Analysis OR PH 3818 Texas Health Policy: Emerging Issues and New Approaches OR PHD 3830 Ethics and Policy OR PH 3736L U.S. Healthcare Payment Systems and Policy OR PH 3738 Legal Issues in Healthcare OR PHD 3998 ST: Advanced Policy Studies • One breadth and one minor or two minors: students are encouraged to select methodology courses appropriate for their dissertation topic. o Students who elect to complete two minors must complete at least one minor outside of the department of MPCH. o Students who elect to complete one minor and one breadth: . Students who elect a primary minor within the MPCH department must complete at least two courses of the breadth outside of the department . Students who elect a primary minor outside of the MPCH department may complete breadth coursework in any department. • Dissertation: PHD 9999 Dissertation Research For a sample course of study, see the PhD in Management and Policy Studies, Healthcare Management/Health Policy Track degree planner.

COURSE DIRECTORY

PH 101 Foundations in Public Health Not-for-credit This course is required for all students enrolled in a degree-seeking program. This course is an online, not-for-credit course that covers the Foundational Knowledge Competencies set forth by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Students will be added to the course in Canvas during their first semester and must complete the course within one year of matriculation.

Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences Courses

PHM 1110L Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health 3 credits After completing this MPH core course, students will be able to explain the contribution of health promotion and behavioral sciences to public health. Students will learn about commonly used theories and models, community engagement, needs assessment, and program design, implementation, and evaluation. Throughout the semester, students will improve communication skills while applying newly acquired knowledge related to public health problems.

PHM 1111L Health Promotion Theory and Methods 4 credits This course introduces students to the application of selected behavioral science theories and concepts in health promotion directed to affect individual behavior change, and environmental and policy theories and concepts to affect changes in organizations, communities, and governments. Topics specific to environmental and policy change include organizational change theory, mass media, community organizations, diffusion of innovations, social networks, community development, community engagement, and public policy campaigns. Students are provided opportunities to demonstrate knowledge and gain experience in applying theory, in designing interventions, and in building coalitions to affect programs, policies, and environmental conditions. Prerequisites: PHM 1110L

PH 1112L Community Assessment Methods in Public Health 3 credits This course will ground students in key concepts and methodologies related to community assessment, including the meaning of community and methods for assessment that span primary and secondary data collection. The assessment process will be conceptualized as a research methodology and process for development and prioritizing community health programs and policy. The course also introduces new and non-traditional methods and technologies, and covers practical considerations such as assessment scoping, budget, staffing, communications, and supporting the community in action planning and implementation. Prerequisites: PHM 1110L & PHM 1111L

PHM 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Promotion Programs (Intervention Mapping) 3 credits PHD 1113L Advanced Methods for Planning and Implementing Health Programs (Intervention Mapping) 3 credits This course integrates and extends the knowledge of behavioral science theory into planning models for health promotion programs that include conducting a needs assessment, determination of priorities, setting goals, stating objectives, designing interventions, and developing an implementation plan. The teaching methods emphasize group process skills through modeling and guided practice applied to the planning process. Student evaluations include a guided written health promotion project plan and participation in class and group assignments. Prerequisites for PHM 1113L: [PHM 1690L or PH 1700L] & PHM 2610 & PHM 1111L Prerequisites for PHD 1113L: PH 1700L & PHM 2610 & [PHM 1111L or PHD 1122L]

PHM 1116 Introduction to Intervention Mapping 2 credits PHD 1116 Introduction to Intervention Mapping

2 credits This one-week intensive course integrates and extends the knowledge of behavioral science theory into planning models for health promotion programs that include conducting a needs assessment, determination of priorities, setting goals, stating objectives, designing interventions, and developing an implementation plan. The teaching methods emphasize group process skills through modeling and guided practice applied to the planning process. Students work on health problems of their choice. Student evaluations include a guided written health promotion project plan and participation in class and group assignments. Prerequisites for PHM 1116: PHM 1690L & PHM 2610, & PHM 1111L. Prerequisites for PHD 1116: PH 1700L & PHM 2610 & [PHM 1111L or PHD 1122L]

PHD 1118L Qualitative Methods 3 credits The course covers the underpinnings of qualitative research, some of the major qualitative research traditions, methods of data collection used in the conduct of qualitative inquiries, and preliminary analysis. Part I provides a broad overview of qualitative research frameworks and techniques. Part II covers the design and practice of fieldwork. Students gain experience with field methods such as observation and mapping. In addition, students develop interview guides and conduct interviews. Part III covers qualitative analysis and students learn preliminary coding techniques for thematic content analysis.

PH 1119L Qualitative Analysis 3 credits This course provides the basic skills for analyzing data from different qualitative research paradigms. In part I, students examine several analytical approaches that are appropriate to a particular data project’s overarching theoretical approach and the topical focus of the study from which it was produced. In Part II, students learn the basics of a qualitative database software program for coding textual and visual data. In addition, students identify a topic and the data they will use for analysis and write up. Prerequisites: PHD 1118L & [PHM 5015 or consent of instructor]

PHM 1120L Program Evaluation 3 credits PHD 1120L Program Evaluation 3 credits This course introduces students to program evaluation, emphasizing a range of evaluation goals and designs and prepares MPH students to describe a plan for the evaluation of a health promotion program. In this course, the evaluation plan structure focuses on three levels: (1) the design of a logic model; (2) program implementation and process; and (3) program impact and outcomes, including threats to validity and measurement issues. Program logic models guide the program evaluation process. Stakeholder involvement emphasizes collaborative approaches to promote evaluation plan fea- sibility and relevance. MPH students will work in small groups to identify a community-based program or policy as the basis for their work to enhance the “real world” experience. Doctoral students will learn the skills associated with designing a multi-level evaluation project to address a public health issue and will work independently to identify a multi-level community-based program or policy as the basis for their work. This project will enable doctoral students to be able to explain how evaluation methods can address health issues at multiple levels. Prerequisites: PHM 2610 & [PHM 1110L or PHM 1111L]

PHD 1121L Advanced Quantitative Analysis for Behavioral Sciences 3 credits The course will focus on statistical methods for research evaluation that extend basic principles of multiple regression, including limited dependent variables, mediation, moderation, and correlated data models (e.g. multilevel models); missing data models, including multiple imputation; study designs and methods that can enhance the internal validity of an evaluation and compensate for a lack of randomization and selection bias, including propensity scores. Class time will be used for lectures, and a semester project will provide an opportunity to conduct specific analyses and present findings using real data. Prerequisites: PHD 1120L & PHD 1420L & [PHD 1421L or equivalent] & [Recommended: PHD 1130L]. If required courses were taken elsewhere or in departments other than HPBS, provide syllabi to instructor for approval.

PHD 1122L Health Promotion Theories for Individuals and Groups: Part I

3 credits This course provides HPBS doctoral students with an overview of the application of selected behavioral science theories and models used in health education and health promotion programs directed toward individuals and groups. The goals for this class are to provide students opportunities to apply behavioral science theories and models to the development of interventions for health problems and to improve scientific writing skills. Students will demonstrate their ability to use theory for understanding a health issue and improve scientific writing skills through written assignments.

PHD 1123 Community Health Promotion Theory and Practice 3 credits This required course for DrPH students in Health Promotion & Health Education aims to build students’ knowledge and skills in community health promotion research and practice via exploration and application or community and environmental-level health promotion theories, community health promotion planning models, and community/environmental-level health promotion change methods that include participatory problem solving, coalition building, and advocacy. Students will engage in diverse learning activities and the development of an NIH community health promotion research funding proposal. Prerequisites: PHM 1110L or equivalent

PHD 1130L Applied Measurement Theory 3 credits This course introduces students to the basic aspects of psychometric theory, with an emphasis on the development of valid and reliable measurement scales. The course covers classical test theory; common scaling methods; analytic methods relevant to scale construction, including exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis; and survey construction, design, and administration. Students have an opportunity to become familiar with various statistical approaches and software used to assess psychometric properties of scales as well as with strategies for survey construction and administration. Prerequisites: PH 1700L or equivalent

PHD 1132 Latent Variable Models and Factor Analysis 3 credits This course helps students develop the skills and understanding necessary to use and apply several statistical techniques included under the umbrella of Latent Variable Analysis. The course covers Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis, Path Analysis, Structural Equation Modeling, Assessment of Measurement Invariance, and Latent Growth Curve Modeling. The course focuses on the application of these methods in public health, reading and understanding research studies that use these methods, and developing research reports and presentations from analyses they have conducted. Prerequisites: [PH 1700L & PHD 1421L] or consent of instructor. The completion of an applied multivariate statistics course is strongly recommended.

PHD 1227L Health Promotion Theories for Individuals and Groups: Part II 3 credits This doctoral level course provides an advanced review of theories of health behavior typically used for the development of health behavior interventions. This course provides an overview of the philosophy of science, offers an in-depth exploration of theory and public health, and introduces theory evaluation and testing. It also presents emerging concepts of strategic importance to health behavior research. This course complements PHD 1420L and PHD 1421L, and elaborates and expands on critical issues presented in PHM 1110L, PHM 1111L, and PHD 1122L, with an emphasis on understanding the role of theory in behavioral research. Prerequisites: [Only students who have taken PHD 1122L will be able to take this course]

PHM 1229 Medical Nutrition Therapy Simulation Lab 2 credits This course, in the simulation lab in Houston, will offer the student the opportunity to learn the process for nutrition focused physical assessment and the assessment process of malnutrition. In a realistic treatment setting with a computer-controlled and instructor-manipulated manikin “patient,” students will learn specific clinical skills leading to proficiency in clinical judgment and performance. Behavioral-based strategies for counseling relating to nutrition will also be included in this course. Prerequisites: Currently enrolled in Dietetic Internship Program – MPH/Dietetic Intern, MD/MPH, or RN/MPH.

PHM 1231L Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy 3 credits This advanced course focuses on the assessment and nutritional management of persons with conditions requiring medical nutrition therapy in general medicine and critical care. Specialized nutritional needs and principles of clinical management are covered. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor

PHM 1232L Public Health Nutrition Practice 3 credits This course presents an overview of the roles, responsibilities, skills, and career opportunities of the public health nutritionist. Topics include review of nutrition education literature; development of behaviorally-based nutrition education materials; identification of community nutrition-related assets and resources; nutrition in public health, evaluation of nutrition programs; nutrition policy and food assistance programs; food security; and the effects of culture on food consumption. Applications of national dietary goals to various population groups are presented, with a focus on underserved populations.

PH 1233L Introduction to Public Health Nutrition 3 credits This course is an overview of the predominant food and nutrition issues that affect the public health of developed countries, specifically the United States. Topics include national nutrition guidelines, dietary assessment, specific dietary issues among populations, food safety, food insecurity, and current topics in public health nutrition. Dietary issues will be presented using a life cycle approach, in which the issues are introduced and developed within the framework of a specific age categories.

PH 1236 Issues in Aging 2 credits The course is designed so that different experts in the field of aging present on their respective areas of expertise and the students are required to read 2 peer-reviewed articles prior to the presentation to engage the speaker in conversation on the topic. These readings provide a context for discussion. So the course is graded heavily on attendance and participation in discussion. A short paper is required at the end of the course describing what they learned and how they will apply it to their public health careers and life.

PH 1237 Obesity, Nutrition, & Physical Activity 1 credit This seminar course provides a forum for students to learn to critically review the research literature in the areas of obesity, nutrition, and physical activity. Topics will vary and will be driven by the current published literature and emerging areas of research. Seminars will be set up in an informal manner, with faculty leading the first session and students assuming the lead later in the semester. Review of papers will be accompanied by in-depth discussions focusing on study design and analysis and interpretation of results, as well as on the relationship of the paper to the existing body of knowledge.

PH 1238 Adolescent Sexual Health 3 credits This course explores issues and controversies related to adolescent sexual health in the United States. This course will provide a broad perspective on adolescent sexual health, sexuality education, what the research indicates is effective and how young people are affected by its implementation, and advocacy for adolescent sexual health. Topics covered include prevalence of adolescent pregnancy, STIs, HIV; sex in the media; sexual diversity; effective programs; answering hard questions; Texas and U.S. laws; contraceptives; and healthy relationships.

PHD 1239L Theories of Child and Adolescent Development 3 credits This course is limited to doctoral students, but interested MPH students who have a strong background in child and adolescent health may be eligible to enroll. This course provides doctoral students with a foundation in historical and contemporary theories of developmental science and explores how these theories facilitate our understanding of normative development from infancy through adolescence. In addition, the course will utilize developmental theories to

47 examine the factors contributing to public health problems that affect children and youth, as well as the development and implementation of public health interventions serving these populations. Students will be expected to lead article reviews and discussion on theories and practical applications. Prerequisites: For doctoral students only

PHW 1241 Disability and Public Health 3 credits This course explores a variety of issues the affect the ability of individuals with disabilities to be healthy in the context of living with their disability. Today, about 58 million Americans live with disabilities, and this number is expected to increase. Unlike previous generations, the life expectancy of those living with a disability now approximates that of the general population, and passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 has increased employment opportunities and participation in community life. In order to fully take advantage of these opportunities, people with disabilities need to remain healthy. Evidence, however, demonstrates that people with disabilities experience substantial health disparities, and that public health has mostly overlooked this underserved group. Topics to be covered include existing federal legislation protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities, surveillance, issues related to access and health care services, evidence regarding lifestyle behaviors and preventive health practices, and approaches for promoting health and reducing disease.

PH 1300 Public Health Communication 3 credits In this course each student selects a significant public health challenge involving behavior and policy/environmental change that can be promoted and advocated through media communication. For their selected topics, students learn how to define audiences and aims, set objectives, select strategies, and design products for an evidence-based multi-component communication plan – with guided practice of skills including news media engagement and public relations, writing and graphic arts for low-literacy audiences, constructing theory/evidence-based logic models, audience research and social marketing analysis, and use of new social and mobile media. Prerequisites: PHM 1110L or PHM 1111L or equivalent

PH 1321L Social Networks and Health 3 credits This course provides students an opportunity to gain understanding on conducting research that uses social network analysis, including major areas of health research. This course will provide students with practical applications of analytical techniques using appropriate software. Topics include theory, research design, data collection, sampling methods, and quantitative descriptions of networks, statistical modeling of networks, and example interventions relevant to various disciplines in public health. Prerequisites: [PHM 1690L or PH 1700L] & [PHM 2610 or PHM 2612L or PHD 1420L or PH 1421L] & [Recommended: a basic theoretical statistics or categorical data analysis or generalized linear model course].

PH 1324L Applied Discrete Data Analysis using STATA 3 credits This course provides students an opportunity to gain practical use and obtain discrete data analytic techniques, including data management and various regression methods for the analysis of categorical outcome variables using Stata 14 statistical software. Topics include the logistic regression model, sampling methods, model building strategies, assessing model fit, multiple logistic regression, and Poisson regression, and some extensions of generalized linear model. This course will provide students with practical applications of these statistical methods using Stata commands. Prerequisites: [PH 1700L or PH 1421L or equivalent] & [Recommended: a basic theoretical statistics course].

PH 1350L Ethnicity, Race, Class & Gender: A Multicultural Public Health Perspective 3 credits This seminar-style course explores contemporary perspectives on ethnicity, race, social class and gender, as well as the way these social identities are discussed in the public health, particularly in the health disparities domain. The course provides an overview of basic social science definitions of culture, multiculturalism, and social identity. Students are expected to demonstrate in an oral presentation and in two take-home examinations, how concepts learned in class may be used to critique public health research conducted in the United States and in a global context. Prerequisites: [PHM 1110L or PHM 1111L]

PH 1410L Addiction and Society 3 credits This two-part seminar first examines contemporary and historical understandings and approaches to drug use across the globe and then types of interventions used to address problematic drug use. In the first part of the course, students will examine the intersection between socioeconomic and political contexts, evolving policies and programs, and emerging practices in drug using populations within and across different locales. In the second part of the course, students will study developmental processes of substance use disorders, diagnosis criteria, and current issues of prevention, intervention and health policies.

PHD 1420L Quantitative Research Design for Behavioral Sciences 3 credits This course equips students with the skills to develop research questions appropriate to the behavioral sciences that can be translated into testable hypotheses and feasible, effective research designs. Students are exposed to a variety of research design elements through published journal articles, and are expected to learn to evaluate and compare the suitability of different study designs to test specific hypotheses. A key aspect of evaluating research design is identifying potential threats to internal and external validity, as well as examining statistically conclusion validity and construct/measurement validity that are present in greater or lesser degree in all research designs, including observational, experimental, and quasi-experimental designs. Assignments and exams will focus on developing the skills to construct valid research designs appropriate to the proposed research question. Prerequisites: Enrolled in a SPH doctoral program

PHD 1421L Quantitative Analysis for Behavioral Sciences 3 credits This course expands on the material covered in PHD 1420L and focuses on the choice and implementation of statistical analyses that assess differences between groups, relationships among variables, prediction of outcomes, and measurement reliability and validity. This course primarily covers the application of statistical methods that are designed to be used with quantitative dependent variables. Emphasis is placed on reading and understanding scientific journal articles that make use of these methods, appropriate use of statistical software for conducting analyses, interpreting the output from these analyses, and presenting the results of analyses in both oral and written form. Prerequisites: ([PH 1700L or equivalent] & PHD 1420L) or consent of instructor

PH 1424L Social Justice and Public Health 3 credits With people from multiple historically oppressed and marginalized groups as the focal point, this seminar examines how multiple social identities, including race/ethnicity; gender, sexual orientation, SES, and disability, intersect at the micro level of individual experience to reflect interlocking systems of privilege and oppression (i.e., racism, sexism, heterosexism, classism) at the macro social-structural level and produce disparate health outcomes. Discussion will center around theory and research from Disability studies, feminism, and Critical Race Praxis (PHCRP) to promote an understanding of how multiple identities and analytical categories intersect to create health disparities that require multifaceted policy and intervention approaches that address the ways that all facets of an individual’s and community’s identity intersect with social discrimination and in turn affect their health. The course explores local and global controversies and examines strategies to address them including community mobilization, coalition building, community- based participatory research, and community-level advocacy.

PHD 1431 Tools and Methods for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2 credits This intensive short-course is designed to introduce students to best practices, resources, and methods for systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and to guide students through the steps of a systematic review. The course uses examples from a wide variety of completed reviews as well as exercises and readings. The format includes face-to-face (in- person/ITV) and online exercises, readings, and recorded lectures. (A STATA-based lab experience in meta-analysis has been added to the course.) Course resources and materials are available throughout the semester to assist students in applying them to a Integrative Learning experience or dissertation. Students who expect to continue with their own reviews and to receive further support and instruction should enroll in independent study with Dr. Mullen and Ms. Vonville. Students who wish to enroll in the meta-analysis module only should enroll for PHD 1861.

Prerequisites: [PH 1700L or consent of the instructor] & [PHM 2610 or equivalent]

PH 1433 Research Seminar in Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences 1 credit This seminar course provides the opportunity to learn about research in health promotion and behavioral sciences conducted by Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences (HPBS) faculty. Faculty will present planned, ongoing, and completed research that covers a range of health promotion and behavioral science topics, and students will have the opportunity to critically discuss and reflect on current research projects and topics. All students in the Department of HPBS must enroll for this departmental research seminar at least one semester during their degree program. It is strongly recommended that students enroll early in their coursework in order to learn more about the kinds of health promotion research engaged in by the faculty at UTHealth School of Public Health and neighboring institutions.

PHD 1435 Health Promotion/Behavioral Sciences Doctoral/Post-doctoral Research Seminar 2 credits This seminar course affords the opportunity for doctoral students and post-doctoral fellows to improve their research skills and increase their scientific productivity in the formulation of research proposals and journal publications and presentations at scientific meetings. Participants present their work-in-progress. This course provides opportunities to involve mentors (e.g., advisers, dissertation supervisors, committee members) and to practice mentoring and teaching with other participants. This course is required for HPBS PhD students once after the qualifying exam and may be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: [Doctoral student or post-doctoral fellow in HPBS] or consent of instructor

PHD 1440 Proposal Writing for Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences 3 credits The purpose of this course is for HPBS doctoral candidates to accelerate the completion of a well-developed draft of their dissertation proposal. Students will read and engage in class discussions to develop their writing and study approach with attention to the organization of their background research (evidence tables), research plan, content, and clarity of writing. In addition to drafting their own proposal, students will provide peer review of other student work. Prerequisites: Doctoral students in HP/BS (DrPH or PhD) who have successfully completed preliminary exams and have identified a dissertation supervisor. Prior to the beginning of the course, the instructors expect the student to submit a draft of at least two specific aims and data source(s) with their dissertation supervisor’s e-mail approval. The instructors also expect the student to set up regular meetings with their dissertation supervisor for feedback and guidance on proposal sections.

PH 1447 Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Applied Innovation in Public Health 1 credit This seminar class provides the opportunity to extend professional networks while considering career paths ‘less trav- elled.’ In a series of engaging personal life stories successful practitioners working at the intersection of public health, technology, and entrepreneurship share ‘how-tos’ and insights for success in their for-profit start-ups, non-profit 503c, foundations, fortune 500 corporations, venture capital firms, and academic institutions. A common theme is the translation of academic IP to the market place to maximize reach, impact, and sustainability.

PHD 1450 Dissemination and Implementation Research and Practice 1 credit This course introduces students to dissemination and implementation (D&I) theories and methods. In-class lectures and discussions focus on the foundations of D&I science including, terminology, conceptual models and frameworks, measures, and implementation strategies. Student evaluations include participation in class and a D&I plan that addresses a public health problem. This course is for doctoral students only. This is a required course for students seeking a DrPH and an elective for students seeking a PhD. You do not need prior knowledge or experience with D&I research in order to participate in the class. Prerequisites: PHD 1122 & PHD 1113

PHM 1496 Capstone for HPBS Students 3 credits

This integrative learning experience is designed to demonstrate synthesis of major themes from the MPH core and major- specific courses. Students will develop, write, and present a proposal for a health promotion intervention. The proposal will be a grant and will focus on the development and evaluation of a proposed theory-based intervention. Prerequisites: Completed MPH Core & PHM 1111L & PH 1112L & [PHM 1113L or PHM 1120L] & completed at least 30 semester credit hours the semester before enrolling in capstone & [completed or concurrent enrollment in PH 9997 Practicum]

PHM 1496L Capstone for HPBS Students: Seed-to-Plate Prevention, Pt.1 (section 850) 2 credits PHM 1496L Capstone for HPBS Students: Seed-to-Plate Prevention, Pt.2 (section 800) 1 credit This integrative learning experience is designed to demonstrate synthesis of major themes from the MPH core and major- specific courses. Students produce at least one high-quality written product. Prerequisites: Must be a dietetic intern & completed the MPH Core & completed at least 30 semester credit hours the semester before enrolling in capstone & [completed or concurrent enrollment in PH 9997 Practicum]

PH 1498 Special Topics in Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses. Special Topics vary each semester and provide in-depth study of HPBS faculty research.

PH 1499 Independent Study in Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences 1-9 credits A plan of study is determined for each participating student and supervised by a member of the HPBS faculty. This course may be repeated for credit. All independent study courses are required to have learning objectives and an outline of learning activities.

Biostatistics and Data Science Courses

PH 1624L Introduction to SAS Data Management 3 credits This course covers reading ASCII files using various formats qualifiers, using DROP and KEEP statements, merging files, writing subsets of files, sorting, labeling variables, calculating date intervals, and using the LAG function. Minimal statistical processing, such as t tests and chi-squares, will also be introduced. Students are given several small coding assignments that are due approximately one (1) week later. To complete the assignments, students must have access to a computer on which SAS is installed.

PH 1625 Intermediate SAS Data Management 2 credits This course presents a review of intermediate SAS programming techniques. Students will be presented with simulated programming tasks in lecture/Q&A sessions. They will then be given one (1) week to complete programming assignments demonstrating the new techniques. Group collaboration will be encouraged for problem-solving; however, each student must hand in an individual completed assignment. Every few weeks there will be an in-class programming assignment that must be completed individually. Occasional quizzes will be used to evaluate skill acquisition. Prerequisites: PH 1624L or consent of instructor

PHM 1690L Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health 4 credits This course is designed as the first biostatistics course for students who have not previously taken a course in biostatistics; it is a designated core course for MPH students. Students will learn how to analyze quantitative data using appropriate biostatistical methods and software and interpret analysis results for a given public health context.

PH 1700L Intermediate Biostatistics 3 credits

This course is required for students minoring in Biostatistics and for students in Biostatistics who have not previously taken biostatistics courses. This course extends the topics covered in Foundations of Biostatistics to provide a deeper foundation for data analysis, particularly focusing on its application on research problems of public health and the biological sciences. Computer applications are included. Prerequisites: PHM 1690L or equivalent knowledge/training

PH 1745L Sampling Techniques 3 credits This course introduces the principles and current practices of survey sampling with health-related applications. Topics include basic concepts and practical issues in statistical sampling; design and analysis for common sample designs, including simple random sampling, stratified random sampling, systematic sampling, cluster sampling, and multistage sampling; and analytic issues concerning the use of complex survey data, such as the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Prerequisites: PH 1700L or consent of instructor

PH 1820L Applied Linear Regression 3 credits The course emphasizes the design, implementation, analysis, and reporting of research investigations. Topics include two- sample inference using t-distributions, robustness and resistance, alternatives to the t-test based analyses, comparisons among several samples, linear combinations and multiple comparisons, simple and multiple linear regression methods, regression diagnostics, variable selection, and related methods. The course requires intensive computer analyses of case studies, emphasizing graphics and proper use and interpretation of statistical software packages using Stata as a model statistical software package. Prerequisites: PH 1700L or consent of instructor

PH 1821L Applied Multivariate Analysis for Biostatistics 3 credits This course is a continuation of PH 1820L. Topics include the analysis of variance for two-way classifications, factorial arrangements and blocking designs, analysis of repeated measures and other multivariate responses, exploratory tools for summarizing multivariate responses, logistic methods for binary response variables and binomial counts, and log-linear regression for Poisson counts. Prerequisites: [PH 1820L or consent of instructor] & linear algebra & PH 1911L

PH 1830L Categorical Data Analysis 3 credits This course presents the theory and applications of categorical data analysis. Topics include contingency tables, applied generalized linear models, logistic regression model, sampling methods, model building strategies, assessing model fit, conditional logistic regression for matched analyses, polychotomous logistic regression, and Poisson regression. Prerequisites: [PH 1700L & calculus] or consent of instructor

PH 1831L Survival Analysis 3 credits This course presents the theory and applications of survival analysis. Topics include censoring, parametric and nonparametric models, hypothesis testing, proportional hazards model with fixed and time-varying covariates, model building strategies, and assessing model fit. Prerequisites: (Calculus & [PH 1830L (preferred) or PH 1820L]) or consent of instructor

PH 1835L Statistical Methodology in Clinical Trials 3 credits This course covers the use of current statistical methodology in the design, execution, and analysis of clinical trials. Some of the topics include basic study design, randomization, sample size issues, data analysis issues, and interim monitoring. Prerequisites: [PH 1700L & calculus] or consent of instructor

PH 1840L Statistical Methods for Handling Missing Data 3 credits

This course covers the use of current statistical methodology for handling missing data in health research studies. Primary emphasis will be given to population-based studies using surveys and secondary emphasis will be given to clinical-based studies, e.g. clinical trials, where dropout is commonly present. Some of the topics include missing data patterns, single imputation methods, estimation of imputation uncertainty, likelihood-based methods, multiple imputation, selection models, pattern-mixture models, shared-parameter models, and sensitivity analysis. Prerequisites: PH 1700L or consent of instructor

PHD 1855L Distribution-Free Methods 3 credits This doctoral-level course introduces the theory and applications of distribution-free (non-parametric) statistical methods. Topics include properties of distribution functions, K-S tests, runs tests, rank sum tests, non-parametric analysis of variance, rank correlation, contingency table analysis, and distribution-free confidence intervals. Prerequisites: PH 1700L

PHD 1861 Introduction to Meta-Analysis 1 credit This is an intensive introductory course and the 3rd section of PHD 1431. The full 3 credit course is designed to introduce students to best practices, resources, and methods for systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and to guide students through the steps of a systematic review. STATA will be used throughout the meta-analysis course. This course meets on an intensive schedule for 2 weeks of the 6 weeks that is a part of the PHD 1431 course. If you will be taking both courses, you must register for both courses separately.

PH 1910L Probability and Distribution Theory 3 credits This course covers probability theory, distributions of discrete and continuous random variables, mathematical expectation, moments and moment generating functions, distribution of transformed variables, limiting distributions, and estimation. Theoretical results are applied to selected research problems in public health and the biomedical sciences. Prerequisites: Working knowledge of differential and integral calculus

PH 1911L Statistical Inference 3 credits This course is a continuation of PH 1910L. Topics include statistical hypothesis tests, LR tests, Bayes tests, noncentral distribution and power, selected non-parametric tests, sufficiency, completeness, exponential family, and the multivariate normal distribution. Theoretical results are applied to research problems in public health and biomedical sciences. Prerequisites: PH 1910L or consent of instructor

PHD 1912L Large Sample Theory 3 credits Large sample theory constitutes a coherent body of concepts and results that are central to both theoretical and applied statistics, and underlies much of the work on fundamental biostatistical topics such as likelihood ratio tests and bootstrapping. The course will start from the introduction to real analysis including limits and order, and basic probabilistic tools. The fundamental large-sample theory most relevant to biostatistical applications will then be taught, including convergence and large sample tests. Prerequistes: Calculus & Linear Algebra & PH 1910L & PH 1911L

PHD 1915L Linear Models I 3 credits This doctoral-level course introduces the fundamentals of linear statistical models for students with preparation in statistical theory and methods. Using matrix algebra, distributions of quadratic forms are presented and used to develop the general linear model for multi-factor data. Topics include estimation and hypothesis testing in the full rank model, estimability, and statistical inference in the less than full rank model. Theory and computation are emphasized. Prerequisites: PH 1911L or consent of instructor

PH 1916L Generalized Linear Models 3 credits

This course focuses on methods for generalized linear models (GLMs), not on the use of software for data analysis with GLMs. Emphasis will be placed on statistical modeling, building from standard normal linear models, extending to and going beyond GLMs, and going beyond GLMs. The main subject areas are logit models for nominal and ordinal data, log- linear models, models for repeated categorical data, generalized linear mixed models and other mixture models for categorical data. Methods of maximum likelihood, weighted least squares, and generalized estimating equations will be used for estimation and inference. The course focus will be on theory, but examples of application will also be presented. Prerequisites: PH 1910L & PH 1911L

PHD 1918L Statistical Methods in Correlated Outcome Data 3 credits This doctoral-level course presents extensions of general and generalized linear models to correlated outcome data. Such models arise from hierarchical designs such as longitudinal studies or sample surveys. Major topics include mixed linear models for continuous, binomial, and count data; maximum likelihood estimation; generalized estimating equations; REML, EM algorithm; current general and specialized software applicable to these methods; and readings from current statistical literature. This course is intended for students with a background in linear models. Prerequisites: PH 1916L or consent of instructor

PH 1920 Advanced Categorical Data Analysis 3 credits This course covers approaches of maximum likelihood, weighted least squares, and generalized estimating equations applied to the analysis of contingency tables and other categorical outcomes. It emphasizes the formulation of hypotheses and hypothesis testing through generalized linear models. Special Topics include the analysis of matched case-control studies, repeated measurements, and clustered categorical data. Computer programs from SAS are used in the analysis of the data. Prerequisites: PH 1911L or consent of instructor

PHD 1930L Statistical Computing 3 credits This doctoral-level course consists of two parts. Part 1 covers programming and other computer skills required for the research and application of statistical methods. The focus will be on programming in the R language. Other computing topics covered are Unix/Linux, Emacs, LaTeX, R graphics, culling C code from R, writing R package, running simulation in statistical research, using high-performance computing cluster, and best coding practices. Part 2 covers the theory and application of common algorithms used in statistical computing. Topics include root finding algorithms, optimization algorithms, numerical integration methods, EM algorithm, importance sampling, rejection sampling, Gibbs sampling, Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC), bootstrapping, jackknife, and permutation test.

PHD 1950L Stochastic Processes in Biostatistics I 3 credits This doctoral-level course covers the application of stochastic processes to problems in the biological and health sciences. Topics include discrete-time Markov chains; discrete-time branching processes; random walks; estimation of parameters in discrete-time Markov chains with complete or partially observed data; test of the Markov property and test of stationarity; time-reversible Markov chains; basic theory of Markov chains; Monte Carlo methods and its applications; and Poisson processes. Recent developments in related areas and their applications will be explored. Basic statistical theory, especially the estimation methods and EM algorithm, will be reviewed. Prerequisites: PH 1911L and a thorough knowledge of calculus

PHD 1951L Stochastic Processes in Biostatistics II 3 credits This course is a continuation of PHD 1950L. This course briefly reviews differential equations and partial differential equations, but it mainly covers several models of continuous-time Markov processes that include the Poisson process, the Yule process, the birth-and-death process, the epidemic process, the queuing process, the illness-death process, and other stochastic models in public health. Statistical inference for some of these models will also be explored. The appropriate data using these models will be analyzed. Applications of counting processes and the concept of Martingale theory to other statistical methods including survival analysis will be introduced. Brownian motion will be briefly discussed. Prerequisites: PHD 1950L or consent of instructor

PHD 1960 Time Series Analysis 3 credits This doctoral-level course covers the uses, descriptions, and analyses of time series models. Methods are developed for fitting models to time series data, and using the fitted models for forecasting future values of the series, as well as for adjusting concomitant variables to control future values of the series. The course also covers spectral and cross spectral methods for analyzing time series data, and sampling distributions of model parameters and of future forecasts. Univariate models are generalized to the case where more than one observation is taken at each time period. Prerequisites: A course in theoretical statistics or consent of instructor

PHD 1965L Bayesian Data Analysis 3 credits This doctoral-level course examines basic aspects of the Bayesian paradigm including Bayes theorem; decision theory; general principles (likelihood, exchangeability, de Finetti’s theorem); prior distributions (conjugate, non-conjugate, reference); single-parameter models (binomial, Poisson, normal); multi-parameter models (normal, multinomial, linear regression, general linear model, hierarchical regression); inference (exact, normal approximations, non-normal iterative approximations); computation (Monte Carlo, convergence diagnostics); and model diagnostics (Bayes factors, posterior predictive checks).

PH 1975L Introduction to Data Science 3 credits This course will cover data structure, foundations of algorithms, object-oriented programming in R and Python, research design, question formulation, data collection, relational database, graph database, data storage, data management, data processing, data query and retrieval, data visualization, report preparation, and exploratory analysis techniques. Prerequisites: [PHM 1690L and previous knowledge of linear algebra, linear regression] & basic knowledge of computer programming.

PH 1976L Fundamentals of Data Analytics and Predictions 3 credits This course introduces modern statistical methods and computational algorithms and tools for big data analysis including descriptive statistics, sampling technique, regression learning, clustering, and classification (e.g., support vector machine, tree-based methods). Students will be introduced to the basic concepts behind data science. Hands‐on sessions will familiarize students with the details and use of the most commonly used online tools and resources. Prerequisites: [PH 1700L or the equivalent] & PH 1975L & [calculus, linear algebra, basic statistical theory and convex optimization methods at the introductory level]

PH 1980L Introduction to Genomics and Bioinformatics 3 credits This course introduces basic concepts, statistical methods, and computational algorithms and tools for the creation and maintenance of databases of biological information, DNA sequence analysis, modeling of evolution, genetic studies of complex diseases including linkage analysis, linkage disequilibrium and association studies, gene expression data analysis, and identification of biological networks. Students will be introduced to the basic concepts behind Bioinformatics and Computational Biology tools. Hands-on sessions will familiarize students with the details and use of the most commonly used online tools and resources. [Cross-listed with GSBS GS110032] Prerequisites: Calculus & statistics & consent of instructor

PH 1982L Evolution of DNA and Protein Sequences 3 credits This course provides basic principles for understanding factors that govern the evolution of DNA and protein sequences. Students will be provided with the opportunity to learn about the formation and evolution of multigene families and other evolutionary phenomena. They will also be introduced to statistical methods and computer programs for analyzing DNA and protein sequence data. There will be computer demonstrations of some topics. The application of these principles and methods to genome-wide epidemiology will be discussed. [Cross-listed with GSBS GS110103] Prerequisites: Calculus & statistics & consent of instructor

PH 1984L Population Genetics

3 credits This course is designed to help students to understand the fundamentals of theoretical population genetics and to be able to apply such knowledge in analyzing DNA samples from a population. Students will learn (1) to understand allele frequency and how it is affected by various evolutionary forces; (2) to understand linkage disequilibrium and dynamics, and be able to apply theory for analyzing linkage disequilibrium pattern in natural populations; (3) to understand the fundamentals of quantitative genetics and be able to apply to the study of important traits in humans; and (4) to understand the fundamentals of coalescent theory and statistical properties of some fundamental summary statistics, and be able to apply these to natural populations. [Cross-listed with GSBS GS110042] Prerequisites: Genetics & statistics & consent of instructor

PH 1985 Data Mining and Statistical Learning 3 credits This course covers applications of various novel data mining, machine learning, and artificial intelligence methods to the data analysis of large and complex datasets. Among other methods, feature construction and feature set reduction, classification, clustering and ROC analysis will be detailed.

PH 1986L Introduction to Statistical Genetics 3 credits This course is designed to help the student understand various situations in which significant interplay between statistics and genetics is fundamental. Specifically, at the end of the course, students should be able to: (1) describe the fundamental principles and theory in some areas of genetics/biomedical science in which statistics plays important roles; (2) apply some widely used statistical methods and approaches for answering specific genetic questions; and (3) be ready for more advanced courses in the area of statistical genetics. [Cross-listed with GSBS GS11 1113] Prerequisites: Consent of instructor

PH 1988 Biostatistics Seminar 1 credit The seminar in biostatistics consists of presentations from guest speakers and some students who are working on doctoral dissertation research. It will provide an overview of various topics of current importance in the field of biostatistics and public health while emphasizing the mathematical and statistical tools needed to address these issues.

PHD 1995 Research Practice Experience for Biostatistics Students 3 credits A research practice experience is a unique learning experience that a student pursuing a PhD in Biostatistics must acquire outside the classroom. This opportunity allows students to apply classroom education towards a real-world public health work setting. Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Preliminary Exam.

PHM 1996 Capstone for BIOS Students 3 credits This integrative learning experience is designed to demonstrate synthesis of major themes from the MPH core and major- specific courses. Students produce at least one high-quality written product. Prerequisites: Students must be a MPH in Biostatistics major & completed the MPH core courses & completed at least 30 semester credit hours the semester before enrolling & completed or concurrent enrollment in PH 9997 Practicum.

PHD 1997 A Teaching and Learning Experience for Doctoral Students in Biostatistics 1 credit This doctoral-level course provides doctoral students in Biostatistics with an overview of the application of teaching methods in biostatistics. The objectives for this class are: (1) Apply teaching methods learned in the course, for example, through presentations on modern statistical topics, and/or via their role as teaching assistants (TAs) in Biostatistics courses; (2) Develop group leadership and teaching skills; and (3) Monitor and improve presentation skills. The student will receive instruction and feedback on their group leadership and teaching skills from faculty. Students will discuss the problem‐based learning case studies based on examples provided and on their own teaching experiences. This is a required course for all PhD students in Biostatistics.

PH 1998 Special Topics in Biostatistics Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses Special Topics courses vary each semester and provide coverage of biostatistical theory and applications.

PH 1999 Independent Study in Biostatistics 1-9 credits A plan of study is determined for each participating student, and supervised by a member of the Biostatistics faculty. In general, courses of independent study are not recommended unless a student has completed the appropriate introductory courses in biostatistics or presents evidence of experience in the field of biostatistics. This course may be repeated for credit. All independent study courses are required to have learning objectives and an outline of learning activities.

Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Courses

PHD 2105L Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Doctoral Seminar 1 credit This seminar course is designed for doctoral students and post-doctoral fellows in EOHS. Doctoral students in other departments and programs may enroll with the consent of the instructors. The course combines research seminar presentations with specific assignments to provide students an opportunity to improve their knowledge of the latest EOHS topics, their presentation skills, and their scientific productivity in the formulation of research proposals and journal publications and presentations at scientific meetings. The seminar provides opportunities to involve mentors (advisors, dissertation supervisors, committee members) and to practice mentoring and teaching with other class members.

PHWD 2106L Introduction to Doctoral Research Methods in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences 2 credits This course provides doctoral students with a background in the perspectives, key concepts, and methods involved in conducting research and evaluating scientific claims in the EOHS context, part of the necessary training to undertake a future research project. The course considers basic aspects and challenges of the philosophy of science and the inference of causality; ethical issues on conducting research; study design and sampling methods; the role of statistics; and the appropriateness of the measures of association, including hypothesis formulation and testing; and presentation of findings. Students are also introduced to the scientific production process.

PHWD 2108L Applied Epidemiological Analysis 3 credits The course gives doctoral students experience in developing skills and designing strategies to plan the analysis of and critically evaluate epidemiological data from occupational and environmental settings. The goal of the course is to prepare students to integrate their knowledge of epidemiology and biostatistics through applied data analysis in the context of occupational and environmental problems.

PHWM 2110L Public Health Ecology & the Human Environment 3 credits This course provides an introductory overview of the basic principles underpinning public health ecology and environmental health. It satisfies the core environmental health MPH requirement for majors and non-majors. Students are provided with foundational knowledge in public health ecology, principles or environmental health and an introduction to environmental policies & controls. Applications of this knowledge will be applied to an environmental case study, wherein students will use a systems thinking approach to identify the key elements of the problem, develop solutions and articulate a dissemination plan. In addition, inter-professional engagement simulations will be used to provide students with skills for engaging stakeholders, including community members, policy makers/enforcers, and other healthcare professionals.

PHW 2120 Human’s Impact on the Environment 3 credits This course provides a general awareness of how the man-made and natural ecosystem interact to affect health and the quality of life, reviews relevant principles from the natural sciences, and discusses issues influencing the solutions to envi-

57 ronmental health problems. The course content will focus on the impact of climate change on human health. The intersection between environmental degradation and climate change and adverse human health outcomes will be examined. The course objectives will be accomplished through lectures, videos, class discussions, group activities, written assignments, and examinations.

PH 2126 Fundamentals and Applications of GIS 3 credits This course teaches basic concepts of GIS and common methods of spatial analysis that are critical for understanding where health events happen (e.g., Snow’s cholera map) and important across all components of public health, including environmental sciences, epidemiology, health planning and policy, health promotion, and international health. The course objectives will be accomplished through a combination of lectures, hands-on labs, and student projects.

PH 2132L Infection Control and Biosafety 3 credits The field of infectious disease and control is mainly composed of four professions: infection preventionists, biosafety professionals, environmental health specialists, and public health professionals. Although the targeted populations for each of these professions differ, a common set of core competencies exists that are essential in order to successfully prevent or control infection. This course focuses on the core competencies that are common amongst all of these professions and will also discuss differences between these trades. Prerequisites: Undergraduate biology required. A course in microbiology preferred.

PHM 2135L Risk Analysis: Principles and Practice 3 credits PHD 2135L Risk Analysis: Principles and Practice 3 credits The purpose of this course is to provide students with the principles of risk assessment for environmental and occupational health hazards. This course introduces important components in risk assessment including hazard identification, exposure assessment, dose-response assessment, risk characterization, and risk management. Case studies are used to demonstrate important principles and practices of risk analysis.

PHW 2150 Air Environment 3 credits This course provides a comprehensive introduction of air pollution with a focus on its effects on human health. It covers a variety of topics related to air quality, including fundamental principles, measurements and control, exposure and risk assessment, epidemiology, energy and air quality, environmental justice, and regulations. Both outdoor ambient air and (non-occupational) indoor air quality are considered. Special emphasis is placed on human health effects and the determinants of human exposure.

PHM 2155 Environmental Sampling and Analysis 4 credits Lab fee: $10.00 for PHM 2155 only. PHD 2155 Environmental Sampling and Analysis 4 credits This course covers the theoretical bases and practical applications of sampling techniques and analytical methods used in the quantitative determination of chemical air and liquid contaminants, ionizing radiation in the workplace and community environments. Emphasis will be on spectroscopic, chromatographic, and other modern instrumental methods. Laboratory exercises will be included. Students will plan environmental sampling design, develop sampling strategies, analyze physical and chemical pollutants in the environments, interpret and communicate the results, and criticize the data related to environmental studies. Prerequisites: [Undergraduate chemistry & undergraduate mathematics] or consent of instructor

PH 2175L Toxicology I: Principles of Toxicology 3 credits This course presents basic principles of toxicology and their applications to the understanding of xenobiotic-induced target organ toxicity. Topics covered include toxicant disposition, mechanisms of toxicity, and target organ responses to toxic agents. A broad overview of various classes of toxic agents will be presented in the context of their exposure routes,

58 disposition, toxicologic sequelae, and mechanisms of toxicity. This course is designed to provide a foundation for understanding the complex interactions between toxicants and biologic systems. Prerequisites: Prior biological science coursework required (i.e., biology, chemistry, or physiology) and consent of instructor

PH 2177 Toxicology II: Toxic Agents and the Environment 3 credits This course provides in-class discussions, based on guided readings, on current topics in toxicology. The discussions include the historical context for our understanding of toxicant-induced adverse health effects. Class activities will be based on discussions of books designed for the lay public and the scientific literature on which these books are based. Principle mechanisms of toxicity as they relate to the understanding of environmentally induced disease form the framework for the course. In-depth reviews of various classes of environmental contaminants and their adverse health effects will be presented. Prerequisites: PH 2175L (preferred) or consent of instructor

PH 2205L Health and Safety Program Management and Leadership 3 credits This course introduces students to “real–world” challenges related to the management of occupational health and safety programs. Students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage a successful health and safety program. This course is a practical introduction to occupational health and safety program management for field practitioners with interest in related disciplines (e.g., industrial hygiene, ergonomics, occupational epidemiology, safety engineering). It draws on concepts from strategic, quality, and accounting management; sociology; political science; and behavioral sciences. Using “real-world” health-and safety-based examples, students will be challenged to apply the concepts presented in class to real-world scenarios.

PHWM 2230L Water Environment 3 credits PHWD 2230L Water Environment 4 credits This course provides students with an overview of the ecological, cultural, and human health significance of water. Students will learn through a combination of lectures, class discussions, and case studies. Issues of water quantity and quality, sustainability, chemical and biological contaminants, water treatment, and conservation practices will be covered. Current water regulations, underlying risk assessments, and related health issues for selected contaminants will be presented. Doctoral students will select a water-related health issue and complete a project describing its importance to public health, identify any gaps in current knowledge and policy, and predict future impacts on environmental science and/or public health.

PH 2241L Fundamentals of Occupational Safety 3 credits This course is designed as a practical introduction to occupational safety for practitioners with interest in related disciplines (e.g. industrial hygiene, ergonomics, occupational epidemiology, safety engineering). The course will focus on hazard recognition, assessment of accident potential, and hazard control. Students will be introduced to the evolution of the safety profession and will be presented with a variety of laws, regulations, codes and standards, and other occupational safety and accident prevention information.

PH 2245 Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene 4 credits This course introduces students to concepts of industrial hygiene and occupational health hazards. Typical industrial conditions that may produce work-related disorders and diseases are studied. Major chemical, physical, and biological stresses in the industrial environment are presented, and important sources, effects, and evaluation and control measures are discussed. Where appropriate, typical calculation methods are included. Prerequisites: Undergraduate biology & undergraduate chemistry (organic chemistry preferred) & undergraduate mathematics

PH 2246L Principles of Occupational Ergonomics 3 credits This course is designed to introduce students to the principles of ergonomics with a focus on the physiological and anatomical capabilities of the worker and interaction with their environment. The course will review anthropometry, physiological basis of work, occupational musculoskeletal disorders and risk factors, workplace and equipment design, environment, job analysis, and elements of the ergonomics process to improve job design.

PH 2250 Occupational Health Controls 4 credits This course presents the principles and practice of controlling workplace and associated hazards, and details CPC, respiratory protection, dilution, and local exhaust ventilation engineering controls: basic design and evaluation of industrial ventilation systems, and noise control. Prerequisites: [PHWM 2110L & PH 2245] or consent of instructor

PH 2255 Clinical Occupational Medicine 4 credits This course offers students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the clinical practice of and current issues in occupational medicine, supplements their basic knowledge in the clinical presentations of occupational illness and injury by organ systems, and introduces them to systematic approaches to the evaluation and management of work-related injury and illness. The course is designed for students interested in occupational medicine practice and who have taken at least one college-level biology course.

PH 2260 Occupational Health Field Trips 3 credits This course takes students into approximately six industrial and occupational settings, with analysis of processes and potential worker health hazards involved. This course aims to introduce students to basic industrial processes and delivery of occupational health services through plant visits; to enable students to perform simple walk-through evaluations of plant facilities and to provide written reports on these evaluations in order to identify potential workplace hazards and evaluate their level of control; and to help students appreciate the importance of using an integrated interdisciplinary approach in the anticipation, evaluation, and control of workplace hazards. Prerequisites: PH 2245 or consent of instructor

PH 2265 Occupational Medicine Practice 2 credits This seminar-style course presents topics of current interest in the practice of occupational medicine. In this course, both faculty and students prepare and discuss topics. Topics vary from year-to-year and semester-to-semester, and include didactic presentations by students, faculty, or invited speakers; field visits to selected worksites; board certification review sessions; and an annual in-service practice examination to assist in preparation for the American Board of Preventive Medicine certification examination.

PH 2270L Total Worker Health and Worker Well-being 2 credits Total Worker Health® (TWH) involved the policies, programs and practices integrating protection from work-related safety and health hazards with promotion of injury and illness prevention to enhance worker well-being. The terminology, concepts and conceptual frameworks surrounding the field of THW and worker well-being are introduced along with resources for planning, implementing and evaluating interventions. Students evaluate the effectiveness of TWH interventions in all size businesses and explore potential modifiers of occupational factors influencing worker well-being.

PH 2280L Environmental Microbiology 3 credits This course introduces to environmental microbiology, with particular emphases on how microorganisms are transmitted to humans as well as ways to identify and prevent this transmission. Topics include microbial sources of contamination; environmental sampling and laboratory techniques; preventive strategies for air-, water-, and food-borne disease; global issues impacting microbial disease; and the roles of epidemiology and risk assessment in addressing human exposure to environmental microbes.

PH 2285 Topics in Infectious Diseases 3 credits This course introduces current perspectives of selected classical and emerging infectious diseases. Guest lecturers are from academia, including UT Southwestern Medical Center, Infectious Diseases Division, and also the Dallas County Health and Human Services Department. Temporal and geographical aspects of the diseases are presented from a public health perspective. Students are expected to write a short summary or analysis of each lecture prior to the following lecture.

PHM 2290L Immunology 3 credits This course covers the essential concepts of the human immune response and their relevance to disease control and prevention. There will be presentations from guest lecturers who have expertise in specific areas where the principles of immunology find their application to human health. Throughout the course, extra emphasis is placed on aspects of immunology with particular relevance to public health, such as immunodeficiency, blood transfusion, nutrition and immunology, tumor immunology, and vaccines. Each student will prepare a report on an area of immunology that is of particular interest to them. Prerequisites: Basic background in biology

PHWM 2496 Capstone for EOHS Students 3 credits This integrative learning experience is designed to demonstrate synthesis of major themes from the MPH core and major- specific courses. Students produce at least one high-quality written product. Prerequisites: Completed MPH core courses & [concurrent enrollment in or completed: PH 2175L & PHM 2135L] & completed at least 30 semester credit hours the semester before enrolling in capstone & completed or concurrent enrollment in PH 9997 Practicum.

PH 2498 Special Topics in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses Topics vary each semester to provide intensive study of selected environmental factors, or specific methods of analysis, evaluation, or control.

PH 2499 Independent Study in Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences 1-9 credits A plan of study is determined for each participating student, and supervised by a member of the EOHS faculty. All independent study courses are required to have learning objectives and an outline of learning activities. This course may be repeated for credit.

Epidemiology Courses

PHM 2612L Epidemiology I 3 credits This course provides a strong foundation in concepts, principles, and methods specific to epidemiology. By the end of this course, students should be able to apply these skills to (a) assess the health of a population; (b) describe the natural history, distribution, and determinants of health-related states and events; and (c) evaluate programs designed to improve public health. To accomplish this, the course considers epidemiology in the context of core public health functions and services.

PH 2615L Epidemiology II 3 credits This course focuses on the principles and activities necessary to carry out information collection that is implemented and managed in an ethical manner consistent with the principles of the scientific method. This course addresses practical aspects of epidemiologic research. Systems theory, epidemiologic methods, principles of survey research, operations research methods, and computer uses in research are covered. The final product from the class is the development of an epidemiologic field “Manual of Procedures” for a study.

PH 2615L Epidemiology II and PH 2710L Epidemiology III can be taken interchangeably. Prerequisites: [PHM 2612L or PHM 2610 or equivalent] & [PH 1700L or PHM 1690L]

PH 2710L Epidemiology III 3 credits This course covers advanced concepts in epidemiologic methods with an emphasis on observational studies. Topics include causal inference, measures of disease frequency, measures of association, study design, precision and validity in epidemiologic studies, introduction to stratified and logistic regression analysis, concepts assessing effect modification and confounding, interpretation of epidemiologic study results, and manuscript development. PH 2615L Epidemiology II and PH 2710L Epidemiology III can be taken interchangeably. Prerequisites: [PHM 2612L or PHM 2610] & [PHM 1690L & (PH 1700L or equivalent)]

PHD 2711L Epidemiology IV 3 credits This course prepares students to use and make reasonable inferences regarding causality from epidemiologic data analyses. Students address research questions using data from a variety of study designs. Students acquire hands-on experience with stratified analysis, logistic regression, and survival analysis. Other learning activities cover meta-analysis, advanced issues in assessment of confounding and effect measure modification, strategies for building multivariable models, and sensitivity analysis. Prerequisites: [PH 2615L & PH 2710L & PH 1700L] or consent of Instructor

PHD 2712L Experimental Methods in Epidemiology 3 credits This course equips students to evaluate and interpret evidence concerning preventive or therapeutic measures, especially those recommended for public health application. It concerns principles and methods of experimental studies in epidemiology and public health, from simple clinical trials to prevention trials in multiple communities. Applications span diverse areas, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases. Students participate actively in a seminar format, critique published reports, and undertake a collaborative project to develop a research protocol for an experimental study. Prerequisites: PH 2710L or consent of instructor

PHM 2720L Epidemiology Proposal Development 3 credits PHD 2720L Epidemiology Proposal Development 3 credits This course covers the structure and content of a student thesis research proposal, scientific writing conventions, critical evaluation and synthesis of epidemiological literature, development of specific aims and research methods, and procedure for writing and editing research proposals. Doctoral students will also cover NIH grant applications and the NIH grant review process. Prerequisites for PHM 2720L: PHM 2612L or equivalent

PH 2725L Neuroepidemiology 2 credits This course provides an overview of the risk factors for a variety of neurologic and neuropsychiatric diseases, including stroke, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, Parkinson’s Disease, mental retardation, autism, and affective disorders. Areas covered include a description of the prevalence, incidence, mortality, risk factors, and etiologic mechanisms of these diseases and conditions. Students will gain an understanding of the impact of these diseases on public health; of the unique methodological issues associated with epidemiologic and genetic studies of these diseases; and of the basic pathobiology and clinical aspects of these disorders. The course aims to aid students’ comprehension of published literature in neuroepidemiology and neurogenetics.

PH 2730 Epidemiology and Control of Infectious Diseases 3 credits This course introduces epidemiologic aspects of infectious diseases and provides information regarding prevention and control of these diseases. At the end of the course, students have an understanding of the epidemiologic aspects of

62 infectious diseases including incidence, distribution, and pattern of disease occurrence as well as different modes of transmission and associated risk factors. They should understand the importance of surveillance systems in detecting epidemics, the application of epidemiological methods to determine the risk and associated factors, and the significance of prevention and control programs for infectious diseases. Students gain knowledge and skills in carrying out epidemic investigations through a series of case study assignments. Prerequisites: [PHM 2612L or PHM 2610] or consent of instructor

PH 2731 Genetic Epidemiology and Infectious Disease 3 credits This course is intended for students who have not had significant training in genetics. It will cover basic genetics, medical genetic terminology, and the associated scientific and medical literature. At the end of the course, students will have an understanding of the genetic aspects of infectious diseases, including the contribution of host genetics and genes influencing susceptibility to infectious diseases. They will understand the importance of environment, host and pathogens genetic factors and their mutual interactions influence on the ratio between clinical and subclinical disease. Evaluations will be based on examinations given in the class and attendance.

PH 2735L Physical Activity and Health: Epidemiology and Mechanisms 3 credits This course presents evidence that exercise training and physical activity can prevent disease and increase the quality of life. The course covers heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, eating disorders, cancers, immune system, and aging, as well as inter-relationships among and between these conditions. Each section starts with the physiology basis for the disease, and the epidemiologic evidence that exercise training and physical activity will reduce the risk of developing the disease. Then, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies are presented supporting the epidemiological data. Finally, studies are presented that focus on the mechanisms by which exercise and physical activity prevents the development of the disease, and, in some cases, how it can improve the disease state.

PHW 2740L Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention 3 credits This course provides an overview of the field of cardiovascular disease (CVD) epidemiology. Topics include the pathophysiology of CVD, CVD survey methods, trends in CVD mortality and morbidity, CVD risk factors, major strategies for CVD prevention, and a summary of major CVD clinical trials. Students will gain an understanding of the impact of CVD on public health. Prerequisites: [PHM 2612L or PHM 2610] or consent of instructor

PH 2742L Epidemiology of Mental Health 3 credits This course reviews descriptive and analytic epidemiology for major mental health symptoms and conditions worldwide. Course topics include understanding: functional and societal burden of mental health conditions, psychiatric epidemiology research designs, causality in mental health, cross-societal comparisons, risk factors and protective factors, plus an overview of treatment, health systems, and prevention. Prerequisites: [PHM 2610 or PHM 2612L or PHD 1420L or PHD 1421L or PHW 3660] or consent of instructor.

PH 2745 Cancer Epidemiology 3 credits This primarily introductory-level course reviews the causes of cancer and the epidemiology of cancer by anatomical site. The course will introduce seminal studies and current issues in cancer epidemiology, and will cover basic concepts pertinent to cancer epidemiology research including biology, pathology, statistics, classic and novel risk factors, prevention, and genetics. Selected publications from epidemiologic literature provide opportunity for student-faculty discussion.

PHW 2750 Disease: Natural History, Prevention, Control 3 credits This course is intended for students who have not had significant training in biology. It will cover common diseases, medical terminology, and the associated scientific and medical literature. The course will consist predominantly of online “lectures,” readings, and discussion board participation. Objectives include attaining a basic understanding of the

63 biological basis of health and of disease processes; developing a vocabulary of medical terminology that will enhance the student’s ability to read and comprehend public health literature; and developing an understanding of common human diseases and their importance in a public health context. The grade is based on participation, assignments, a mid-term examination, and research project.

PH 2755L Nutrition Research Methods 2 credits This course teaches basic epidemiologic research skills applied to nutrition. Students complete training for UTHealth School of Public Health on-line library databases and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) Evidence Analyses Process (EAP). Students learn to create and score evidence tables using the EAP. Students develop a brief nutrition research proposal with an objective, literature review, methods section, and dummy tables and graphs. Students learn techniques for effective PowerPoint presentations and deliver an oral presentation of their individual project. Prerequisites: Enrollment in Dietetics Internship or consent of instructor

PHWM 2760L Occupational Epidemiology 3 credits PHWD 2760L Occupational Epidemiology 3 credits This course describes the types and magnitude of workplace injuries and illnesses, which exact a large human and economic toll on adult and child workers in the United States and worldwide (many, if not most, of these adverse health outcomes are preventable); examines the epidemiologic methods used to identify risk factors for these events; and examines the role of academia, industry and public health practice in understanding and controlling these conditions from an epidemiologic perspective. The course is especially targeted as a Special Topics course for epidemiology majors and to provide an epidemiologic and public health perspective to occupational health for occupational health, environmental science and other interested students. Doctoral students will have additional projects. Prerequisites: [PH 1700L or PHM 1690L] & [PHM 2612L or PHM 2610]

PHM 2762L Environmental Epidemiology 3 credits PHD 2762L Environmental Epidemiology 3 credits This course is designed to introduce students to specific research areas within the field of environmental epidemiology as well as to epidemiologic and exposure assessment methodologies commonly used in the field. The course provides an introduction to selected topics and concepts in environmental epidemiology and will prepare students to critically appraise the environmental epidemiologic literature. Topical areas may include (but are not limited to) air pollutants, persistent organic pollutants, pesticides, metals, environmental disasters, and environmental justice. Prerequisites: [PH 2610 or PHM 2612L] & PHM 1690L

PHW 2765L Pediatric Epidemiology 3 credits This course describes the public health impact of pediatric conditions and introduces special considerations in the design and conduct of epidemiological studies of pediatric conditions. Resources for pediatric epidemiology and the epidemiology of common chronic pediatric conditions are also covered. Prerequisites: PHM 2612L

PHW 2775 Epidemiologic Methods in Racial and Ethnic Disparities 3 credits This course provides an overview of health issues related to race and health in modern U.S. society. Special emphasis is given to epidemiologic methods and perspectives in research studies using race/ethnicity; demographic trends; mortality and life expectancy; and social, etiology, biological, and genetic factors associated with health disparities by racial and ethnic group in the United States. This course builds on the previous knowledge on the methodology of analytical and descriptive study designs to understand the advantages and shortcomings of race/ethnicity in epidemiological studies. Prerequisites: PHM 2612L or PHM 2610

PHW 2780L Applied Genetics Methods in Public Health 3 credits This course introduces statistical methods and software for analyzing measured genetic variation in human studies. The primary focus will be on analytic methods with hands-on use of sample datasets and available software. Students will be refreshed on the genetic and statistical theory underlying current methodologies. Students are recommended to have previous exposure to the principles of genetics and biostatistics.

PHW 2781L Practical Python Programming and Algorithms for Data Analysis 3 credits This course is intended for students who are focused on big data analysis in the Python programming language from large scale epidemiologic datasets, electronic medical records, or next generation sequence data. It will cover basic programming including strings, array, dictionaries, conditional statements, data visualization, external data sources, and algorithms with a focus on using programming to solve challenges within the students’ own research projects.

PHW 2782L Practical Computational Genetics and Bioinformatics 3 credits This course is designed as a training of necessary computational and bioinformatics skills used in everyday analysis of biological data, especially DNA sequence and polymorphism data. Topics include basic Unix/Linux command line, programming (Python), human sequence/polymorphism databases, and DNA analysis. Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of genetics and DNA sequence

PHW 2785L Laboratory Methods: Applications and Implications to Public Health 3 credits This introductory course provides an overview of various methods and techniques utilized in laboratory settings and epidemiologic investigations. Emphasis is placed on laboratory methods that are relevant to the study of public health, such as the techniques utilized in investigating disease outbreaks. This course addresses a unique need and the necessity for public health students to know the basic laboratory methods used in epidemiologic studies. An understanding of the basic concepts of immunology, molecular biology, and/or genetics would be helpful, but is not a prerequisite.

PHW 2795 Disease Detectives: International Epidemic Investigations 3 credits This course presents a series of outbreaks in global settings and asks the student to conduct the investigation as though they were leading it. Information is given in stages, and as the information evolves the student has to work through possible approaches to working out the cause of an outbreak and how to control it. The student has to determine what information is needed, obtain it, determine cause, how to intervene, and finally achieve control. Prerequisites: PHM 1690L & [PHM 2610 or PHM 2612L] & consent of faculty

PHM 2800L Tropical Infectious Diseases 3 credits The course is designed as an introductory course in parasitology; a basic background in biology should be sufficient preparation. An understanding of the basic concepts of immunology would be helpful, but is not a prerequisite. The course will consist of a combination of lectures, group discussion, and homework assignments. For a number of topics, guest lecturers who have a unique perspective on the subject will be enlisted. Particular viral and parasitic pathogens of humans have been selected for study based on their public health importance. Pathogens that are especially problematic in international settings and/or emerging or re-emerging diseases are given special attention. Key factors in the selection of topics include prevalence, morbidity and mortality, and societal impact of the microbe.

PH 2805L Medical Microbiology 3 credits The course is designed as an introductory course in medical microbiology; a basic background in biology should be sufficient preparation. An understanding of the basic concepts of immunology would be helpful, but is not a prerequisite. The course will consist of a combination of lectures on selected topics. For a number of topics, guest lecturers who have a unique perspective of the subject will be enlisted. Particular bacterial pathogens of humans have been selected for study based on their public health importance. Key factors in the selection of topics include prevalence, morbidity and mortality, and societal impact of the microbe.

PHW 2810 Pathology and Public Health 3 credits This course provides an overview of the pathophysiology of disease. The first third of the semester is devoted to studying pathophysiologic processes. Thereafter, for each body system, two to three diseases are examined and studied in detail, including clinical, histologic, and anatomic changes that occur, as well as public health implications of each. Each student presents a final research project on a disease process or type, including the pathology and public health aspects. The final grade is based on attendance, participation, examinations, and class projects. Prerequisites: PHW 2750 or [one semester of college biology or zoology]

PH 2815L Genetics and Human Disease 3 credits This course introduces principles and methods of human genetic analysis with special reference to the contribution of genes to the burden of disease. Although molecular, biochemical, and morphogenic processes controlled by genes will be briefly surveyed, the aim of the course is to describe the analytical processes whereby genetic mechanisms are inferred and genes on chromosomes are located. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor & general genetics and statistics Cross-listed with GSBS GS110013

PH 2830L Clinical Genetics in Epidemiology 3 credits This course teaches the role clinical genetics plays in the practice of epidemiology, and the relationship between epidemiology and medical genetics. Emphasis will be on the practice of medical genetics as it may be encountered by professionals in public health. The subject material covers basic biology of clinical genetics, genetic diseases and birth defects as seen in a medical genetics clinic, the provision of genetic services in Texas, and public policy issues relating to the practice of medical genetics. Prerequisites: Recent course in college biology or equivalent

PHWM 2835 Injury Epidemiology 3 credits PHWD 2835 Injury Epidemiology 3 credits This course provides overview of the leading types of injury in the United States, as well as the epidemiologic methods employed in conducting injury research. Students will learn about injury surveillance methodology employed to foster the reporting and capturing of injury events. Students will learn to systematically critique the injury literature by applying epidemiologic methodology. Students will have the opportunity to engage in online discussion about motor vehicle accidents, violence, drowning, nail gun injury, needle stick injury, musculoskeletal, and farm-related injuries, to name a few topics.

PHM 2845L Nutritional Epidemiology 3 credits PHD 2845L Nutritional Epidemiology 3 credits This course teaches how to describe the methods and evaluate the issues associated with nutritional assessment of populations using dietary, biochemical, and anthropometric data. A combination of lecture, seminar, and hands-on activities are incorporated to examine the strengths and weaknesses of nutritional assessment methodologies used with epidemiologic study designs. Students are provided data and guided to explore methodologies of statistical analysis and interpretation of nutritional data. Prerequisites: [PHM 2612L or PHM 2610] & [PHM 1690L or PH 1700L or equivalent] or consent of instructor

PHM 2846 Rapid Assessment Methods in Public Health 3 credits PHD 2846 Rapid Assessment Methods in Public Health 3 credits

This course presents several rapid assessment methods, both qualitative and quantitative, developed for gathering public health data in national and international arenas, as public health professionals, and epidemiologists in particular, are called upon to accurately assess community health needs and assets both during regular times and after disasters, to do surveillance of health events and monitor them, and to evaluate whether and how needs are being met. This course will help students to gain competence with both quantitative sampling methods and with qualitative data gathering methods.

PH 2858 Quantitative Analysis for Public Health Research and Practice 3 credits This course bridges epidemiological and biostatistical skillsets. The overall objective is to provide students with the tools and hands-on experience of analyzing datasets guided by research questions. Students will learn how to conduct a research project from conceptualization to dissemination, including: development of research questions and analytic plans; cleaning and coding data; assessing the degree of missingness; evaluating and interpreting univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses and building models; analyzing and conceptualizing interaction; analyzing complex survey data; and appropriate research dissemination techniques. Prerequisites: [PHM 2612L or PHM 2610] & [PHM 1690L or PH 1700L]

PH 2860 Advanced Design Analysis Methods in Epidemiology 3 credits This course primarily covers topics related to study design and appropriate data analysis using advanced techniques. At the core, the faculty will discuss basic and generalized regression models for binary (logistic), continuous (linear), and count (Poisson) outcomes; multivariate data reduction techniques, such as factors analysis and Principal Component Analysis; longitudinal models; analysis of clustered data; and select data mining methods. Whenever possible, the faculty will illustrate how to carry out data analyses in SAS or STATA or other suitable statistical packages. Prerequisites: PH 2710L & PH 1830L

PHM 2950L Genetic Epidemiology of Chronic Disease 2 credits This course exposes students to the evidence and logic involved in inferring the contribution of genetic mechanisms to those diseases of public health importance. Emphasis will be on developing a framework for assessing the impact of genes on common disease, but will not include detailed methodological developments or statistical techniques. The format will be a weekly two-hour session during which a single disease will be examined. In this way, students will be introduced to a broad spectrum of diseases and learn to recognize the similarities and the uniqueness inherent to each. Sessions will be comprised of lectures and discussions. [Cross-listed with GSBS GS110092]

PH 2960 Seminar in Genetics and Population Biology 1 credit Students analyze and present individual topics or research. [Cross-listed with GSBS GS110711] Prerequisites: Consent of instructor

PHW 2970L Foundations of Public Health Genetics 3 credits This course is designed mainly (but not exclusively) for students with a limited background in genetics who want to gain an appreciation of the importance and current limitations of the application of human genetics to public health approaches to identifying and ameliorating disease. The course aims to provide enough background in genetics, human biology, and genomics to allow students to understand and appreciate the role of human genetics in public health. Doctoral students will complete additional work to demonstrate the ability to synthesize information from published papers and online resources and use it to analyze features of genetic diseases that are unique, unusual, or not yet well understood.

PHD 2990 Epidemiology Seminar 1 credit The Epidemiology Seminar and Journal Club is open to all students, but is mandatory for epidemiology doctoral students who have not yet taken their preliminary examination. The seminar is intended to hone research and presentation skills, and to provide students an opportunity to present data, a research proposal, or an epidemiology-related topic to an audience of their peers and mentors. The seminar will provide students an opportunity to receive critical feedback on their research and develop professional interactions between faculty and other students.

PHWM 2996 Capstone for EPID Students 3 credits This integrative learning experience is designed to demonstrate synthesis of major themes from the MPH core and major- specific courses. Students produce at least one high-quality written product. Prerequisites: Completed MPH core courses & completed PH 2615L Epidemiology II & completed at least 30 semester credit hours the semester before enrolling in capstone & completed or concurrent enrollment in PH 9997 Practicum.

PH 2998 Special Topics in Epidemiology Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses Special Topics in Epidemiology vary each semester.

PH 2999 Independent Study in Epidemiology 1-9 credits A plan of study is determined for each participating student, and supervised by a member of the Epidemiology faculty. In general, courses of independent study are not recommended unless a student has completed the introductory course or presents evidence of experience in the field of epidemiology. All independent study courses are required to have learning objectives and an outline of learning activities.

Management, Policy and Community Health Courses

PHM 3620L Principles and Practice of Public Health 4 credits PHD 3620L Principles and Practice of Public Health 4 credits This course illustrates how the health of populations is promoted and protected by organized public health practice. Students are acquainted with current evolving concepts and performance of public health practice, and are introduced to essential public health services performed by public health agencies. Students will learn expectations of the effective and efficient performance of agencies and the competencies required of individual public/community health workers. Representatives from community/public health programs will participate in class presentations along with faculty.

PHM 3630 Health Program Planning, Implementation and Evaluation 3 credits This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and techniques of planning, implementing, and evaluating public health programs. The course will cover concepts that are relevant to evaluation of health interventions, as well as social and behavioral interventions, in the community settings. These will include program/intervention; implementation and impact evaluation concepts; models/designs; methods; indicators; and data collection, analysis, and interpretation strategies. Design and application of evaluations will include both quantitative and qualitative research methods.

PHW 3660 Demographic Data Methods for Public Health Practitioners 4 credits This course provides an overview of demographic methods commonly used by professionals in public health practice and research. This course is an interactive, graduate-level electronic seminar. Students will be introduced to age-, sex-, ethnicity-, and cause-specific death rates; period rates and cohort rates; methods of standardization of rates and proportions and selection of standards; the life table and some of its uses; common fertility and reproductivity rates; uses of data from the birth certificate; mobility data and measures; and population estimates and projections.

PHM 3715L Management and Policy Concepts in Public Health 3 credits This course provides an overview of theory and practice in the management and policy sciences applied to the field of public health. Topics include public health in the U.S. health system/legal bases of public health, public policy institutions, planning and management to promote health, emergency preparedness, public sector institutions, management, and decision-making. Students will gain skills in oral and written communication with individual and group projects.

PHM 3718L Accounting for Healthcare Management

2 credits This course covers relevant topics in financial accounting and management. Students will improve their understanding of financial accounting principles and will learn different analytical approaches for evaluating financial performance in the healthcare sector. In addition, it will enable students to demonstrate a mastery of key theories and principles of healthcare accounting and to apply ethical decision making in financial management.

PHM 3720L Healthcare Finance 2 credits This course offers students the opportunity to improve their understanding and use of financial concepts and principles in the health care industry. Financial management under prospective payment and capitation systems, as well as product costing and pricing, are included. The lecture format will be augmented by student readings, homework assignments, and class discussion. Students are expected to attend class, participate in discussions, and complete homework assignments.

PHD 3721L Healthcare Finance 2 credits This course offers doctoral students the opportunity to improve their understanding and use of financial concepts and principles in the health care industry, and to consider anticipated changes due to health care reform. Managerial and financial accounting, as well as financial analysis and strategic planning, are covered. Financial management under prospective payment and capitation systems, as well as product costing and pricing, will be emphasized.

PHD 3731L Healthcare Management and Policy Research 3 credits This course prepares students to conduct research with academic rigor. Students are exposed to different research methods prevalent in healthcare management and policy disciplines through assigned readings (research articles and unpublished dissertations). In addition, the course emphasis is on manuscript writing, designing a feasible study grounded in theory or conceptual framework and based on publicly available data sources, comprehensive literature review, selection of appropriate research methods, and identification of potential analytical issues and methodological solutions. Prerequisites: PH 1700L & PHM 3744L & PHD 3930

PH 3735L Healthcare Strategic Management 3 credits This course focuses on the development and implementation of strategy by health care organizations in the changing healthcare marketplace. The course stresses practical approaches to articulate an organization's mission and vision and to formulate strategies that fit the external and internal situation. In addition, basic principles of community-based health planning are examined, and the potential linkages between organizational strategic planning and population health are explored. This is a required course for the healthcare management MPH program.

PH 3736L U.S. Healthcare Payment Systems and Policy 3 credits This course reviews current U.S. healthcare policy in terms of the national healthcare system and the various payments systems. This course builds on system theory and examines the unique approach in the US and how it is changing. In the United States, payment systems are provided in the form of private or public insurance plans, or other forms of group coverage that are offered to eligible populations. Each healthcare payment system will be examined in depth to reveal the policies that serve as the foundation of the program; the authority, the economics, the targeted population, and the current challenges. Students will apply systems theory and policy concepts to theoretically redesign the U.S. healthcare system.

PH 3737L Cost-effectiveness for Public Health Interventions 2 credits This course is an applied introduction to cost-effectiveness. The students will compare and contrast cost-benefit, cost of illness, and cost-effectiveness. The course will cover study design, costs including opportunity costs, estimating life- expectancy including quality adjustment, and conducting sensitivity analyses. Students will present applied examples of studies, and will write a proposal to assess an intervention, policy, or regulation.

PH 3738 Legal Issues in Healthcare

3 credits This course provides an overview of legal and ethical issues facing the health care industry and examines legal and ethical issues in the administration of health care programs. Students will gain a working knowledge of how to apply federal and Texas health laws and regulations to real-world problems. Components studied include: key legal process and resources, ethical issues of concern to health providers, medical staff issues and peer review, quality and malpractice concerns, legal and ethical issues related to access to healthcare, end of life issues, reproductive health, role and structure of hospital ethics committees, tort law and professional liability, fraud and abuse, governmental regulation, informed consent, confidentiality and medical records, and ethical decision-making.

PHD 3743L Organizational and Management Theory 3 credits This course helps doctoral students to develop frameworks for thinking about the world of health care organizations and its complexity. The specific emphasis will be health services organizations and management research, with an emphasis on organization theory. Organization theory is a set of approaches to the understanding of how organizations form, survive and grow, interact with each other, recruit and process members, gain and manage resources, and deal with internal and external problems. The primary goals of this course are to apply relevant theories to a range of organizational problems and to attain skills needed to be an effective researcher in health services organization and management research.

PHM 3744L Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management in Health Services Organizations 3 credits This course provides students with an application of organizational behavior theory; models to analyze; and evaluation factors that affect behavior, performance, and job satisfaction of people working in organizations. This course exposes students to a body of knowledge and equips them with skills needed to successfully manage and lead health services organizations. It focuses on applying different approaches for managing individuals, teams, and organizations to achieve organizational excellence.

PHM 3746L Evaluation and Improvement of Healthcare Quality 3 credits This course provides students with requisite knowledge and skills for understanding, evaluating, and improving clinical and operational processes, as well as healthcare outcomes both within an organization and across a population. Qualitative and quantitative approaches to quality management and improvement are examined through historical perspectives, real-world cases, and didactic exercises.

PH 3747L Healthcare Operations Management 2 credits This course introduces students to key management functions, processes, issues, and challenges currently face by health care agencies and organizations. This course uses more advanced methods to improve healthcare processes and outcomes. Specific focus will vary but may include: understanding how organizational context influences processes and patient care; problem-solving and using key tools such as SWOT or gap analysis; understanding how policies and regulations affect operations; making process improvements (e.g. reducing hospital readmissions); understanding performance measure and how these are used for mandatory reporting and tacking program or patient outcomes; and learning about tools, concepts of techniques used to improve management performance.

PHD 3748 Advanced Case Applications in Healthcare Finance 3 credits This advanced doctoral-level course provides students with the opportunity to evaluate and select appropriate financial management and accounting tools for application in solving typical health care organizational financial challenges, using a case study approach. Students will be required to synthesize financial concepts and consider organization behavior ramifications in recommending workable solutions to each case. The goal of the course is to offer students a variety of health care business problems encapsulated in cases solved using skills drawn from financial theories and models. Cases reflect common decisions faced by both financial and non-financial healthcare administrators.

PH 3749L Information Technology in Healthcare Management 3 credits

This course provides an overview of essential operational processes in a healthcare organization and the application of information technology (“IT”) resources to those processes. Students will be introduced to different health IT systems used at individual, organizational, interorganizational, and state or national levels. Additionally, management of health IT resources will also be discussed.

PHD 3750 Policy Issues in Health Information Technology 3 credits This doctoral-level course will critically examine policy and regulatory issues related to the use of information technology (IT) in healthcare. The course will focus on three broad topical areas of health IT: clinical, consumer, and population health informatics. While the primary emphasis will be on the different policy and regulatory issues within the United States, students will be exposed to international contexts as well particularly in developing countries. Cross-listed with SBMI HI6324. Prerequisites: PH 1700L & PHM 3744L. Recommended additional courses: PHD 3930 & PHD 3731L.

PHM 3800L Working with Diverse Communities 3 credits This course provides students an introduction to the knowledge and tools necessary to increase cultural sensitivity and humility by encouraging self-reflection and awareness. Each week will focus on the unique needs and challenges of a different community with invited speakers who can address the unique needs of those communities. The primary focus of the course will be on individuals who currently reside in the United States.

PHD 3801L Community-based Grant Writing Workshop 1 credit The goal of this introductory-level doctoral course is to provide students with the knowledge and tolls necessary to write a community-based grant proposal. This course covers the complete process of grant proposal development: legal and policy background of funding organizations; theory and culture of philanthropy; funder relations; research and identification of an achievable and fundable project; logistical concerns when preparing a proposal; proposal writing; budget development; preparation of a full proposal package for submission; and post award or rejection follow-up with funders. Students gain an understanding of community based organizations and become familiar with tools and resources available to assist them as they seek funds for their projects, institutions, or causes.

PHM 3810 Health Policy in the United States 3 credits PHD 3810 Health Policy in the United States 3 credits This course provides an overview of health policy in the United States. The principal institutions, processes, and ideas shaping health policy at the federal level will be described and explained. Health policy questions will be illustrated using substantive topics of importance to public health. Doctoral students will appraise health policy in the United States and evaluate its strengths and weaknesses. Principal policy-making institutions, processes, and ideas that shape health policy at the federal level will be assessed and criticized.

PHD 3812 Comparative Healthcare Systems: Policy Challenges and Economic Perspectives 3 credits This doctoral seminar course examines economic, political, and other pertinent aspects of various national health care systems across the world. Systems theory and performance evaluation theory are used as bases for comparison of the national systems and the sectors within those systems. In the past, the course has covered most European nations, and nations from Asia, Africa, South America, and the United States. Students are encouraged to explore more developed and less developed countries for comparison of critical factors that influence system construct.

PH 3815 Health Policy Analysis 3 credits This course examines the process of policy development and the role of research and analysis in the process. A framework is introduced for selecting the type of research and analysis needed to address different policy questions. Key concepts and methods of policy research and analysis are introduced and applied to real-world policy problems in public health. Upon completion of the course, students should have an understanding of the role of policy analysis in the policy development

71 process, be able to frame policy issues for research and analysis, and be able to identify and appropriately apply research methods and analysis to policy questions.

PH 3818 Texas Health Policy: Emerging Issues and New Approaches 3 credits This course examines major issues, new programs, and legislative initiatives in Texas health policy. Background information on the state legislative process, budget, and historical role in health policy is presented. Policy analysis concepts and methods are introduced as a guide for class discussion and student assignments. When the legislature is in session, topics are selected that reflect proposed legislation. In semesters between legislative sessions, topics are selected based on interim study assignments and other sources. Topics typically include: Medicaid/CHIP changes/reform, healthcare regulation, behavioral health, long-term care, medical education, rural and border health, disease prevention and control, and health promotion.

PH 3825 Public Health Law 3 credits This course introduces students to public health law, which defines the extent to which the state can interfere with private interests when protecting the health of the population. Students will study, through constitutional and statutory analysis, how the balance between these interests is determined. Because administrative agencies are used extensively to regulate matters that affect the public health, students will examine the legal characteristics of these governmental entities. The use of the common law to establish public health policy and remedies for public health problems will be considered.

PHD 3830 Ethics and Policy 3 credits This course focuses on the application of ethics, values, and moral reasoning to problems and issues in public health. It offers a careful overview of approaches to moral theory and modes of assessment to develop students’ skills in reasoning and evaluation. Special attention will be given to justice and equity as key moral claims in public health. Practical examples will be used to illustrate moral arguments, criteria, and modes of reasoning connected with health promotion, disease prevention, and healthcare delivery.

PH 3845L Quality, Cost, and Value Evaluation in Healthcare 3 credits This course provides students with requisite knowledge and skills for understanding, assessing and evaluating quality, performance improvement, and patient safety within a healthcare organization. Using the Institute for Healthcare Improve- ment (IHI) Open School Curriculum, students will complete online courses in improvement capability, patient safety, triple aim for populations, person- and family-centered care, leadership, and quality, cost, and value.

PHD 3846L Quality Management and Improvement in Healthcare 3 credits This course provides students with requisite knowledge and skills for evaluating and conducting research in the areas of quality, performance improvement, high reliability, and patient safety at the unity, organization and population levels. Frameworks for defining, analyzing and comparing quality outcomes are presented, inclusive of confounding factors. Operational approaches to population health and organization quality improvement are examined through expert speakers and real-world cases. Students are also introduced to management science techniques commonly used to assess and improve systems and workflows.

PH 3855 Climate Change Policy 3 credits This course introduces students to the issues and controversies surrounding public policy to mitigate global climate change. The course will follow the progress of bills in the U.S. Congress intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and will consider EPA’s regulatory initiatives and policies adopted in the United States. The course will assess the full range of political positions, the role of science, and the impact of propaganda and advocacy on the climate change debate. The format will include lectures, film, group discussion, and written assignments.

PHM 3910 Health Economics 3 credits

PHD 3910 Health Economics 3 credits This course covers the theory of microeconomic analysis and its application to health and health services. It emphasizes the use of theory to understand problems of organization, delivery, and financing of health services; discrepancies in health levels among members of society; and the choices available to society regarding these issues. Doctoral students will also be required to write a paper that identifies and discusses the major policy and research issues in one of the areas that is introduced in the course, critically reviews relevantly published research in this area, synthesizes their view of the state of this research and suggests what types of research might be most fruitful, e.g., as if pursued in a dissertation.

PH 3915 Methods for the Economic Evaluation of Health Programs 3 credits This course covers the concepts and methods for the economic analysis of healthcare decision alternatives. Topics will include cost-benefit, cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis, and other methods of decision analysis. It emphasizes the application of these methods to the evaluation of alternative health programs.

PHM 3918L Geographic Information Systems Science 3 credits PHD 3918L Geographic Information Systems Science 3 credits This introductory level elective course in Geographic Information Systems Science (GIS) introduces the science and skills required for the geographic exploration of public health data. Topics will include cartography, sources of GIS data, working with Census and other secondary data sources, geoprocessing, geocoding and basic spatial analysis, among others. Students will acquire skills through a combination of lecture, labs and hands-on assignments using ArcGIS and other software packages.

PH 3920 Health Services Delivery and Performance 3 credits This course explores the effectiveness, efficiency, and equity of the U.S. healthcare system. Students are introduced to definitions, concepts, and methods used in health services research and policy analysis, and given an opportunity to use them to evaluate important problems and efforts to reform the healthcare system. Each section of the course is taught by a different faculty member with expertise related to one area of health services research and/or policy analysis. Each year, there is a thematic focus for the course that is addressed from the various perspectives and is the subject of a policy analysis exercise at the end of the semester.

PHM 3922 Economic and Social Determinants of Health 3 credits PHD 3922 Economic and Social Determinants of Health 3 credits This course introduces the concept of population health and analyzes the reason for health disparities between countries as well as socioeconomic and racial/ethnic groups within countries. It takes an approach to health that identifies the social factors, such as inequalities in income and opportunities, and racial/ethnic disparities that influence the health of populations. The course examines population health by exploring economic, social, and cultural factors; identifying systematic variation in these factors leading to health disparities; exploring how economic, social, and cultural conditions affect individual risk factors, human behavior, and biology; and assessing economic and social policies. A social determinants of health-related term paper is required. For doctoral students: A longer and more in depth paper is required.

PHD 3926L Health Survey Research Design 3 credits This course presents the methods for designing and conducting health surveys. Emphasis will be placed on problem conceptualization, measurements, and questionnaire design in the context of a total survey design framework. Examples of face-to-face, telephone, mail, and Internet surveys will be presented. Prerequisites: PHM 1690L & [PHM 2610 or PHM 2612L] or equivalents

PHD 3930 Econometrics in Public Health 3 credits This course has two learning objectives: developing skills in quantitative methods for the analysis of complex data, and understanding and critically evaluating public health research using econometric methods. This course consists of 11 units, including linear regression, non-linear regression, analyzing cost as dependent variable, panel data methods, random and fixed effect models, specification tests, endogeneity, instrumental variables, and selection models. Prerequisites: PH 1700L or equivalent that demonstrates some knowledge of regression

PHD 3931 Advanced Econometrics 3 credits This course introduces advanced techniques in statistics and econometrics for conducting successful health outcomes and policy research. Students are expected to have an understanding of basic statistical concepts, such as discrete and continuous random variables, probability distributions, joint distributions, conditional distributions, independence, statistical inferences and estimations, properties of estimators, hypothesis testing, ordinary least square regression, logistic regression, one-way ANOVA, contingency tables, and χ2 (chi-square) analyses. Topics covered will include Causal Inference, Causal Graphs, Treatment Effect Identification, Models of Causal Exposure, Linear regression, Panel Data methods including Fixed and Random Effects estimation, Limited Dependent Variable Models like - Logistic regression, Probit, Tobit, Heckman, 2-Part and 2-Step models, Interpreting Marginal Effects and Interactions for Limited Dependent Variable models, Modeling cost data especially using log transforms, Simultaneous Equations and Instrumental Variable Analysis, and Use of Specification Tests like Hausman, Breusch-Pagan, White, Park, Glejser and Box-Cox. The course will emphasize practical applications of statistical methods to real world problems of public health and health outcomes research. Prerequisite: PHD 3930 or equivalent

PHD 3935 Advanced Health Economics 3 credits This doctoral seminar-style course focuses on the application of microeconomic analysis to questions dealing with the production of health, the demand for health services, the production and supply of health services, market equilibrium, social health insurance, and government regulation of health sector activities. Prerequisites: [PHD 3910 or equivalent] & consent of instructor

PH 3940 Healthcare Outcomes and Quality Research 3 credits This course introduces students to measurement and evaluation issues associated with patient-centered outcomes and quality of care studies, an increasingly important component of present-day health services research. The focus will be on the application, rather than development, of measurements. Topics that will be covered include development of the outcomes framework, outcomes measures, risk adjustment of health outcomes, technical and practical issues with measurement and estimation, and empirical examples of healthcare outcomes research. Outcome and quality measures that will be covered include generic and condition-specific health status measures, satisfaction, patient trust, and patient adherence.

PH 3941 Claims Data in Healthcare Research 3 credits This course provides an overview of the elements of administrative claims data. This information will be crucial to any student interested in utilizing claims data for research purposes. The course will focus on the various data fields in enrollment, and medical claims, and pharmacy claims. Strategies for effectively querying claims datasets will be provided. Multiple data sets include commercial claims, Medicare claims, and Medicaid claims. Prerequisites: Familiarity with SAS or Stata

PHD 3945 Advanced Health Services Research Methods 3 credits This course introduces students to the application of quantitative methods in health services research. The major elements of designing and conducting an empirical study will be covered, with emphasis on specification of research questions and design, measures, use of primary and secondary data sources, and issues in bivariate and multivariate analysis. Examples of the use of different methods in the literature will be reviewed.

PHD 3946L Strategy, Governance, and Leadership 3 credits This course provides students with an overview of the basic concepts and principles of strategic planning within the broader context of governance, management, and leadership. The emphasis on this broader context is important because it is in the arena of strategy development that governance and management overlap and the need for clear leadership arises. While the institutional focus is primarily on healthcare organizations, the organizational dynamics and strategic management principles apply across industries.

PHM 3949 Strategic Leadership in Public Health 3 credits This course is designed for masters-level students in all public health disciplines. It focuses on applying and evaluating leadership theories, concepts, and emerging perspectives; analyzing personal, professional, organizational, and system leadership dynamics in a rapidly changing and complex world; and discerning the implications of leadership research on the practice of leadership in public health research and practice settings. The course content will examine the depth and nature of leadership as it is observed, experienced, practiced and developed. The course is designed to create a learning community among the students and faculty. In addition to the classroom session, there will be a weekly on-line discussion (via the Canvas discussion board medium) that will address specific case studies on the topics discussed in the classroom session. Students’ participation will be assessed in both classroom and “virtual classroom” environments.

PHD 3950 Advanced Leadership Studies in Public Health 3 credits This course is designed for doctoral students in all disciplines who have had previous leadership courses or leadership training. It focuses on synthesizing, applying, and evaluating leadership theories, concepts, and emerging perspectives; analyzing personal, professional, organizational, and system leadership dynamics in a rapidly changing and complex world; and discerning the implications of leadership research on the practice of leadership in public health research and practice settings. Three themes of reflection, critical thinking, and communication support the examination of leadership dilemmas, patterns, behaviors, and outcomes. Other topics to be addressed include leadership studies research; complex adaptive systems and sustainability; culture and change; ethics; power influence and politics; creating and sharing a vision; and futures studies.

PHD 3957L Topics in Health Economics 3 credits This course explores topics in health economics. The course will focus on economic determinants of health, such as health insurance status, education, and income. It will also focus on policies that might affect health and health behaviors, such as taxes, and on classic and emerging issues in the field, such as social networks and health.

PHD 3970 Doctoral Dissertation Proposal Development in Management, Policy and Community Health This course focuses on the development and critique of a dissertation research proposal for students pursuing a DrPH or PhD in MPACH. Prerequisites: Enrolled in a doctoral program (DrPH or PhD) in MPACH & completed an acceptable dissertation topic synopsis & identified dissertation chair

PHM 3996L Capstone for MPCH Students 3 credits This integrative learning experience is designed to demonstrate synthesis of major themes from the MPH core and major- specific courses. Students produce at least one high-quality written product. Prerequisites: Students must be an MPH MPCH major or a MPH Customized major with advanced public health coursework meeting major-specific competency requirements & completed the MPH Core courses & completed at least 30 semester credit hours the semester before enrolling in capstone & completed or concurrent enrollment in PH 9997 Practicum.

PH 3998 Special Topics in Management, Policy and Community Health Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses Topics vary each semester and provide in-depth study of various public health issues.

PH 3999 Independent Study in Management, Policy and Community Health 1-9 credits A plan of study is determined for each participating student and supervised by a member of the MPACH faculty. This course may be repeated for credit. All independent study courses are required to have learning objectives and an outline of learning activities.

Interdepartmental Courses

PHM 5015L Introduction to Qualitative Research in Public Health 2 credits This course will provide an overview of qualitative research in public health. Students will be introduced to qualitative research methods and analysis. This introductory course will help students understand the core ideas, processes, and activities underpinning qualitative research. Students will be able to develop interview guides, focus group guides, and codebooks and have the opportunity to practice qualitative methodological and analytical techniques. This knowledge will allow the student to use qualitative research in public health practice and provides preparation for further study of qualitative research methods and analysis.

PH 5025 An Overview of Tobacco Control and Tobacco Regulatory Science 3 credits This course focuses on tobacco control and regulation over the past century including efforts by the tobacco companies as well as tobacco control scientists/practitioners. The course includes the history of these efforts, a focus on FDA’s new regulatory authority, and major issues in the field, such as the regulation of e-cigarettes. Cigarette smoking is the largest cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States; the lessons learned are applicable across many public health areas.

PH 5030 Diabetes Seminar 1 credit This seminar will offer comprehensive course content during a 1-week timeframe in the first summer session. Topic areas include standards and practice recommendations; pregnancy and diabetes; acute and chronic complications of diabetes; diabetes education; and medications. Treatment algorithms, protocols, and guidelines for weight loss, exercise, nutrition, glycemic control, insulin administration, and care of the elderly will also be discussed. Two diabetes cooking classes will be presented during the week. The Diabetes Seminar and cooking classes are open to all UT Health students and Health Care Professionals. MPH/DI students should register under the course number PH 9997-section 870. This course is also open to medical students, nursing students, etc. and to RDs/interns in the community for CEU credits.

PHM 5096 Capstone for Customized Students 3 credits This integrative learning experience is designed to demonstrate synthesis of major themes from the MPH core and major- specific courses. Students produce at least one high-quality written product. Prerequisites: Completed the MPH Core courses; completed at least 30 semester credit hours the semester before enrolling in capstone; and completed or concurrent enrollment in PH 9997 Practicum. Other prerequisites vary by campus and course offering.

PH 5098 Foundations of Scientific Writing in Public Health 3 credits This course provides students with the basic writing skills critical for scientific writing. Writing is a learned skill that develops with practice coupled with feedback and more practice. Good writing takes more than simply translating ideas onto the page. Good writing includes knowledge of grammar, crafting arguments, and careful revision and editing. This course provides a platform for students to revisit the rules of grammar, practice crafting and structuring arguments, translate ideas onto paper, and write a scientific proposal or manuscript. Students will have the opportunity to read good writing as well as enhance their writing skill through weekly writing assignments and receiving regular feedback.

PH 5098 Special Topics in Interdepartmental Courses Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses

Selected Special Topics provide intensive coverage of interdepartmental theory and applications. Topics vary each semester.

PH 5098 Special Topics in Interdepartmental Courses: Culinary Medicine (fall section 850; spring section 851) 2 credits Through innovative nutrition curriculum and hands-on training in the culinary arts, the Culinary Medicine course will teach medical, nursing, and dietetic intern students about food: how to cook, what to eat, and how to help their patients improve their diet – and thereby, their health. Course Fee: $75.00

PH 5098 Special Topics in Interdepartmental Courses: Garden for Health (fall section 800; spring section 801) 2 credits In the Holistic Garden of the School of Public Health, students will gain knowledge of how to use the garden as a tool to improve health and quality of life. Common fruits, vegetables and herbs that are produced during the warmer and cooler months of the year along with information that pertains to their successful cultivation and their unique roles in our diet and health will be discussed. Course Fee: $75.00

PH 5098 Special Topics in Interdepartmental Courses: The History and Culture of Disease and Healing 3 credits This course is presented in collaboration with the schools of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Rice University and the University of Houston. It is a humanities course with a series of lectures on Tuesday evenings that have been chosen for their relevance to the relationships between human history and culture and the epidemiology and impact of disease and the arts of healing. Each lecture is followed by a discussion session on Thursdays at 4-5:30 p.m. The unique collaborative format of this seminar demonstrates shared values between institutions of higher learning and the professional/academic training offered to various specialties.

PH 5099 Independent Study in Interdepartmental Concentrations 1-9 credits A plan of study is determined for each participating student, and supervised by a member of the Concentrations faculty. In general, courses of independent study are not recommended unless a student has completed the appropriate introductory courses in the concentration or presents evidence of experience in the field. This course may be repeated for credit. All independent study courses are required to have learning objectives and an outline of learning activities.

PH 5102 Health Disparities Core Seminar 1 credit This seminar is a venue for students to familiarize themselves with health disparities literature and to discuss current health disparities issues in a supportive environment of peers and faculty.

PH 5200 Foundations of Leadership in Public Health 3 credits This is an introductory course in public health leadership for students in all academic programs. This course introduces students to the theories and principles of effective leadership, presents leadership challenges, and discovers personal attributes of leadership in public health practice and research. Students will begin to develop life-long learning skills through self-development, experiential learning, and discussion of leadership approaches. Content areas will include complexity theory, change management, ethics, collaboration, effective communication, team-building, dialogue, decision-making, conflict management, leadership evaluation, advocacy, and strategic planning.

PHM 5210 Selected Readings in Leadership Studies 1 credit PHD 5210 Selected Readings in Leadership Studies 2 credits These seminars are designed to assess how public health professionals become leaders. Students are introduced to the concepts of leadership in public health, evaluation and analysis of leadership readings, and discussion and examination of leadership issues, using experience and examples from the field.

PH 5220 Gender and Leadership

3 credits This course focuses on the topic of women and leadership. Using a seminar approach anchored in selected readings, students will consider prevailing theories of leadership and discuss the variable of gender. Readings will focus on a variety of specific issues such as the “glass ceiling,” derailing behaviors, and conflict style differences in women and men.

PH 5298 Special Topics in Leadership Studies Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses The courses offered may vary from year to year. Courses should be approved by the student’s leadership studies advisor.

PH 5301 Maternal and Child Health Core Training Seminar I 3 credits PH 5311 Maternal and Child Health Core Training Seminar II 3 credits The Maternal and Child Health Core Training Seminar sessions will provide an opportunity for intensive instruction and discussion of topics specific to Maternal and Child Health as well as hands-on experiences in community-related projects. The scope of the MCH Core Training Seminar curriculum is centered on life span development, from perinatal/infant health to child/adolescent and women’s health. Students will receive instruction on utilizing data sources specific to maternal and child health, such as vital records and other routine data sources as well as hands-on experience in extracting data, analyzing data, and interpreting results.

PH 5400 Physical Activity Assessment and Surveillance 3 credits This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of the various methods used to measure physical activity and related constructs (e.g., energy expenditure and physical fitness) in individuals and populations. This understanding will be achieved through a review of the current research literature related to measurement methods and hands-on practice experiences with various physical activity measurement methods (i.e., data collection to interpretation). Behavioral, environmental, and policy-related correlates and determinants of physical activity will also be discussed.

PH 5401L Physical Activity and Public Health Practice 3 credits This course provides a forum that promotes an understanding of effective practice strategies for implementation of public health programming related to physical activity. This understanding will be approached through review of the current research literature with a focus on the “Guide to Community Preventive Services” recommendations for physical activity. Topics in the course will focus on evidence-based strategies, as well as effective approaches to program development, implementation, and evaluation.

PHM 5402L Social and Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity 3 credits PHD 5402L Social and Behavioral Aspects of Physical Activity 3 credits This course presents the contributions of increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior to overall population health including morbidity, quality of life, mortality, and health care expenditures. The course focuses on social and behavioral constructs and theories and settings. The course topics include health benefits of physical activity; physical activity recommendations; informational approaches to promoting physical activity; behavioral and social approaches to promoting physical activity; environmental approaches to promoting physical activity; planning, implementing, and evaluating interventions; and program planning and evaluation. Doctoral students will focus on theory-based approaches to promote physical activity and sedentary behavior from a behavioral sciences perspective.

PH 5610 Global Health Overview 3 credits This course presents an overview of the issues affecting the living conditions and the health status of low-income country residents, and the local and global responses to these problems. Throughout the semester, students will develop an understanding of global and international health through the discussion of sub-themes, including the different meanings of globalization; population and demographics; assessment, health indicators, and epidemiology; immunizations; communicable and emerging diseases; war, conflict, refugees, migration, and displacement; health systems; cultural

78 differentiation; maternal and child health; food security and nutrition; trade agreements, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals; environmental health and pollution; urban health and the development of mega-cities; and economic development.

PH 5612 Global Health Seminar 1 credit This weekly seminar is presented by faculty, students, and Visiting Professors, and varies in subject matter, depending on current events as well as the special expertise and experience of presenters.

PH 5613 Critical Cinema for Public Health 2 credits This course presents a series of documentaries and Big Screen movies revolving around public health topics. The range of topics will include health disparities; health systems; culture, behavior, and health; environmental health themes; globalization; addictions; mental health; food production; research ethics and methods; violence; and surveillance and control of epidemics. All movie presentations will be followed by a class discussion.

PH 5698 Special Topics in Global Health Credit hours vary among Special Topics courses The courses offered may vary from year to year. Courses should be approved by the student’s global health advisor.

PH 9997 Practicum 1-9 credits A practicum is a unique learning experience that is planned, supervised, evaluated and graded. Practicum experiences allow students the opportunity to apply classroom education towards a real-world public health problem in a work setting. Students should consult their degree requirements for maximum credits that can be applied to their degree. More information about practicum can be found online on the UTHealth School of Public Health website.

PHM 9998 Culminating Experience/ Thesis Research 1-9 credits A culminating experience is designed to ensure that all MPH graduates can integrate and apply the knowledge and skills that they have gained during their graduate training. Students should consult their degree requirements for maximum credits that can be applied to their degree. More information about culminating experience can be found online on the UTHealth School of Public Health website.

PHD 9999 Dissertation Research 1-9 credits Dissertation research is for students pursuing a doctoral degree that are required to complete a written research dissertation that makes a substantial contribution to knowledge in the public health sciences. Students should consult their degree requirements for maximum credits that can be applied to their degree. More information about dissertation research can be found online on the UTHealth School of Public Health website.